Cora M. Rogalski

Born on August 1, 1922 in Fredonia, NY to James & Carrie Civiletto, Cora Rogalski lived in the area her entire life. She was a 1940 Fredonia High School graduate and student athlete. Cora proudly helped her country in the war effort as one of the incredible group of American women known as “Rosie the Riveters.” She lived her life by the term “Use it up, Wear it Out, and Make it Do” and taught her children the value of living by those humble words.

Cora married Henry Rogalski in 1943 and together they raised seven children on the family farm where she had great appreciation for the gardens and vineyard. She prided herself with planting flowers and couldn’t wait for the first crocuses and tulips to appear in the spring. Cora looked forward to freezing and canning everything that came out of the garden so she could enjoy them the whole year. She would always say, “It’s a long winter.”

A loving and compassionate mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Cora’s greatest joy in life was her family. She relished every gathering, large or small, a house full of people, and a table full of food. With her infectious smile, she delighted in the stories shared by her family members and laughed with everyone as they told and retold childhood shenanigans.

Cora is survived by her children, Evelyn (Jim) LaHaie, Sausalito, CA, James (Pamela) Rogalski, Eden, NY, Richard Rogalski, Fredonia, NY, Carlene (Jack) Lundgren, Mogadore, OH, Sandy (Rick) Laurito, Fredonia, NY, and Hank (Cindy) Rogalski, Lake Mary, FL, 13 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, her sister-in-law Helen Merrill, Fredonia, NY, and many nieces and nephews and their children. She was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years,

Henry, son Lawrence and siblings Josephine Fogarty, Charles Civiletto, Connie Sasso, Sarah VandeVelde, and Salvatore Civiletto.

Cora’s extraordinary positive outlook on life was the gift she shared with all who kne her. Her presence in our lives will be dearly missed and always cherished.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass which will be celebrated Tuesday morning at 10 o’clock in St. Anthony’s Church, Fredonia. There will be no prior visitation. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Sheridan, NY. Arrangements are by the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.