- Welcome to Daley Life Celebration Studio, where we Celebrate the Color of Life.
Lester B Gambacorta, Sr.
It’s been said that a pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity, but for Lester, he saw the opportunity in every difficulty. From his boyhood days when, after the loss of his parents, he was placed in an orphanage, he never felt slighted or bitter. When WWII started, he saw it as a chance to proudly serve the US Coast Guard. By the time he was an adult he could take any situation and turn it into a positive. Besides, rather then complain, about anything, his time was better spent focusing on his family. When it came to the kids, his goal was simple; instill in them his tireless work ethic, his strong sense of morality and then support them in all their endeavors. He owned Lester Signs in Riverside, where he thought nothing of working into his 90s. Even age couldn’t slow him down. Despite replacement knees, a quadruple bypass and a replaced aortic valve, he could still be found completing orders for his business. When he did have time for leisure, his hands were always busy tending to his garden or clapping for the Phillies. rn While at a dance in Yeadon, PA, a young woman named Elizabeth “Betty” (nee Focoso) caught Lester’s eye. She didn’t trust folks from over the bridge, but after Lester charmed his way into her heart, she found herself in Riverside, where they started their life together. Their 57 year marriage was blessed by their children: Lester, Jr. (Victoria Ward) of Riverside, Diana Rosati (Nicholas) of Cherry Hill, Bernadette Masciocchi (Francis) of Hainesport and again by their grandchildren: Bianca, Frankie, Bernadette, Vincent and Domenica. He was always close with his many nieces and nephews, especially Alice Cole, Jean Gambacorta and Judy Cranmer (Joe). Lester was predeceased by his parents: Marino and Virginia Gambacorta.rn Come celebrate Lester’s 90 wonderful years (February 3, 1921-August 18, 2011) Tuesday from 7-9 PM at the Sweeney Funeral Home, Riverside and Wednesday from 9:45-10:45 at Jesus the Good Sheppard Church (St. Peter’s Site), Riverside, where Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11. Interment St. Peter’s Cemetery.rn
7 Comments
Dear Betty, children, and family….we were so sorry to hear about Lester’s passing. He was truly “one in a million.” We have so many wonderful memories of this amazing friend. Our love and prayers are with you at this time. God bless !!rn
Les, I am so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. It’s been a long time since I left CNT when we were bought out . I miss you and everyone I worked with. Again, my deepest sympathies to you and your family
Dear Diana and family, Your dad was always gracious to Ted and I. His smile could light up a room. Our love and prayers are with you at this time.
Lester was never without a smile, a story, or a joke.rnHe will long be remembered by those who knew him. I always felt better after speaking with Lester. He had so many fond stories of my late husband Al. My prayers are with you Betty and with your entire family. God Bless you all.
Diana and family,rnrnIt was a blessing to have made your Father’s acquaintance. It is evident he taught your family how to care for one another! With sympathy.
Dear Mrs. Gambacorta, Les and Family,nnI am very saddened to learn of Mr. Gambacorta’s passing. I am sure that you are missing him deeply. I know how much he meant to you all, and to Vicki as well. nnPlease accept my sincere condolences and know that you remain in my thoughts and prayers. God bless.nnWarm regards,nMae WardnnnPS: I have no doubt that there is a new saint in heaven looking down on us all and smiling. :)nnn
Diana, when I saw the notice of your dad’s passing in the paper so many memories of our friendship while classmates at St. Peters came flooding back. Your really high sliding board in the yard and your brother Lester’s Fort that had the electric light in it, also singing “Silent Night” together in the 5th grade Christmas Show – you were so much a better singer than me. 🙂 Your mom and dad were always so nice to me when I visited. God bless your Dad and may he be in peace.