| Date of Birth | May 31, 1925 |
| Passed Away | February 14, 2010 |
| Place of Residence | Hornell |
| Home State | NY |
| Service Date | February 18, 2010 |
| Service Time | 10:30 AM |
| Service Location | St. Ann's Church |
DONA ARGENTIERI
HORNELL-Dona Argentieri, wife of Dr. Mario Argentieri, died peacefully at her home of 57 years on Sunday Feb. 14, 2010. She was born Dona Roth on May 21, 1925 in Tuscarawas, Ohio to Clara and Howard Roth. She is survived by her younger sister, June Klaserner. Dona graduated from Uhrichsville High School in 1943 and obtained her nursing degree at Capital School of Nursing in Washington, D.C.
On June 11, 1946, she married Dr. Mario Argentieri. The following year she began her family of six children, Attorney Thomas P. Argentieri, Linda A. (Lee) Rascovar, Attorney Paul A. (Lynne) Argentieri, Gerald A. (Cheryl) Argentieri, Dede (Richard) Ranger, Theodore J. (Diane) Argentieri.
Child advocacy was one of the many passions in her life. One example of her passion was creating the Hornell High School Summer School program. She was active in the Hornell Children’s Home, AFS intercultural exchange, Scouting, The Camp Fire Girls and St. Ann’s Marching Band.
For over 40 years, she was the Business Manager for her husband’s medical practice. She also chaired and served many years on the St. James Hospital Women’s Board and was the first woman on the Board of the Hornell YMCA. In 1960, she was recognized by the YMCA as Woman of the Year. She was also president of the Steuben County Medical Society Auxiliary. She was instrumental in choosing candidates for the nursing scholarship given by the Steuben County Medical Auxiliary.
Affectionately known as Nana to her 15 grandchildren, Justin (Ariane) Argentieri, Matthew (Serena) Argentieri, Meghan and Cale Argentieri, Alex (Anya) Rascovar, Paula Argentieri, Vanessa (Daniel) Mahoney, Christian, Dane and Veronica Argentieri, Brett and Eric Argentieri, Elliot (Kathyr) Ranger, Lowell and Colby Ranger and five great-grandchildren.
Dona was a patron of the Arts and worked on the Area Arts Council for several years. She loved traveling and was an avid enthusiast of speed and loved Formula One racing at Watkins Glen. Dona loved to entertain and was renowned for her parties at home and at Loon Lake.
She will always be remembered for her devotion to her faith, husband, family and friends.
Calling hours are from 1-4 and 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at the Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc. 285 Main St., Hornell. Friends are invited to meet her family at St. Ann’s Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Thursday.
Those wishing may contribute in her memory to the Dona R. Argentieri Scholarship Fund at St. Ann’s School, 27 Erie Ave., Hornell, NY 14843. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.
Dr Argentieri and family-sorry for your loss-our prayers are with you.
My family knew Dona mostly when we visited Loon Lake. What fun she was and how welcoming she was to all of us. She was so hospitable and warm. At her house, there were wonderful meals and good company. I loved her sense of humor. But, in looking back I remember one serious moment that was a learning experience for when I became a grandmother.
I saw a recording of Elliot Ranger giving a speech at a graduation or commencement. I think it was from McQuaid. I was so impressed. He was at ease, articulate for someone so young.
I said to Dona, “Wow, wasn’t he amazing? Aren’t you proud?” She answered calmly, “Yes, of course, but then all my children and grandchildren are amazing just in different ways. They all have special skills or talents. I am proud of each one.”
I think of her often and the lesson that each child is special in his or her own right. It fits right in with her support of the Hornell High School Summer School program, the Hornell Children’s Home, AFS intercultural exchange, Scouting, the Camp Fire Girls and St. Ann’s Marching Band.
For sure her love and enthusiasm will be missed by people like me who were touched by her in some unique way.
Dear Dr. Argentieri & Family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you and your families. Dona was a very special person whom I geatly respected. Unfortunately, I am in MA this week and will not be back in Hornell until next Sunday. You will all be remembered in my daily prayers. God bless always.
Sister Dolores Ann
my sympathy and prayers are with you Dr. Argentieri and family. Your wife was a very lovely lady. May God give you all comfort during this time.
Dear Dr. Argentieri and Family,
I have so many fond memories of Mrs. A. at the lake that I can’t pick just one to share. I can summarize them by saying she was always warm, friendly, kind, and above all loving. I will miss seeing her at church or in the school chapel. I know that there is another Angel watching over us all from Heaven. Our deepest sympathies are with you all.
Dear Dr Argentieri and family. I just want you all to know that I have you all in my prayers at this sad time. Both you, Dr. Argentieri and Dona will always be in my prayers as your care of mom{Kay Dunn} helped us keep her in her home til her death. The Dunn family have a special place in their hearts for you. Love and prayers
My prayers and thoughts go out to all of Dona’s family. I foundly remember the lunches I spent with her, Mario, and Jerry at the house. She will be sadly missed. God Bless!
Dear Dr Argentieri and family, Our deepest sympathy. Many fond memories over the years and wonderful times at the lake. Thought of her like family she will be truly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you even though we cant be there.