Nancy LaMantia's Obituary
Nancy LaMantia (nee Oriti) died Sunday in Santa Monica, California, two months shy of her 98th birthday. Nancy, a native Clevelander and longtime Lakewood resident, had moved to Los Angeles after the death of her husband of 63 years, John A. LaMantia, to be near her daughter, Nina LaMantia O'Hern, and avoid the harsh Cleveland winters. Nancy was first and foremost a loving wife, mother and grandmother, who enjoyed returning to Cleveland to see family and friends for the Holidays and summers. She was a wonderful hostess and cook, whose parties always included good conversation and someone who played the piano. Until the end, Nancy baked award winning apple pies, loved music, theater, travel, writing poems and corresponding with friends in beautifully hand written notes that were cherished by all. She read three newspapers per day - especially Page Six of the New York Post - so she could remain socially conversant with her grandchildren. Over the years, Nancy was a member of the Cleveland Women's City Club, served as president of the St. Vincent Charity Hospital Women's Guild, and volunteered to elect GOP candidates. Nancy is survived by her daughter, Nina, of Los Angeles, son James J. LaMantia (Pamela), of Gates Mills, and grandchildren Katherine LaMantia of Boston, Elizabeth LaMantia Vestal (Beau) of Providence, Margaret LaMantia of Chicago and John LaMantia of Manhattan Beach, California. In addition, Nancy is survived by three brothers; James Oriti (Dorothy) of Fairview Park, Joseph Oriti (Rosa) of Cleveland Heights and Sam Oriti of Cleveland Heights. A private memorial service will be held November 2, 2013. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Vincent Charity Hospital. Nancy will be laid to rest next to her husband in Knollwood Cemetery, Mayfield Heights. Green Family Funeral Home & Crematory Service, Mantua are in charge of arrangements. Her obituary maybe viewed at www.greenfamilyfuneralhome.com
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