Alberta, “Bert”, Marie (Szablewski) Catalano

She was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., on May 8, 1926. She was always proud to be born in Pittsburgh and moved to Dunkirk at the age of 16. Alberta worked at Van Raalte until she met and married her husband, Leonard Catalano on June 14, 1947, at Holy Trinity Church. They were able to celebrate 70 years of marriage.

Alberta was a devoted mother to her five children. She is survived by her son, Joseph (Katherine) Catalano of Grand Island, daughters: Lenore Fiebelkorn of Dunkirk, Georgian (Richard) DeForest of Cortland, N.Y., Frances Catalano of Dunkirk, son, Richard (Karen) Catalano of Fredonia; sister-in-law, Frances Roesler; and brother-in-law, Mark Clapps.

She is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Not just a homemaker, Alberta was a very active member in her Home Bureau. She loved her crafts and her home was filled with her handmade pieces. Alberta also took pride perfecting her skills in flower arrangements. Taking ceramic classes, she made each family member a 12 piece Nativity set. Alberta won various ribbons for her different ceramic pieces at the County Fair.

Alberta was also known for her sewing abilities. She sewed everything from Barbie and Ken clothes to ballet outfits for her granddaughter.

Alberta and her husband, Leonard spent their winters in Largo, Fla., with fellow friends from Dunkirk. The couple enjoyed traveling throughout the United States on Lenny’s Bus Tours.

Alberta always welcomed friends and families with coffee and sweet homemade treats.

n addition to her parents, Frank and Vera (Panko) Szablewski and husband, Alberta was predeceased by her two brothers: Joseph and Leonard Szablewski.

No visitation or calling hours will be held due to COVID-19 regulations. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be at Holy Trinity Church, Dunkirk held for immediate family members. Entombment will be at the Willowbrook Cemetery.

Donations can be made to the Dunkirk Historical Lighthouse at 1 Gratiot, Box 69, Dunkirk, N.Y., or to the Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels, 196 Newton St., Suite 5, Fredonia, NY 14063.

A special heartfelt thank you to the 1-A Unit at the Chautauqua Nursing & Rehab Center. The family appreciates the extra care and attention given to Alberta.

Arrangements by McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.