Obituary of Ursula M. DiRosa

Ursula Manderano DiRosa, 97, passed away peacefully at her home on October 17, 2014. She was born on October 17, 1917 in Marathon, NY, the daughter of Bartelo and Lila Manderano. A life long resident of Cortland, New York, Ursula was known throughout the community for her beautiful watercolor paintings. She was a member of the Cortland Art League and often taught art classes to the students in the Gifted and Talented program at BOCES, to the seniors at the Senior Center and to friends at her home. Her work was shown at the Cortland Free Library as well as all of the banks downtown. She frequently participated in Homer on the Green where her work could be displayed as well as sold. Through the years Ursula studied with other artists to increase her knowledge of art and learn new techniques. Among her other hobbies, Ursula loved to knit, sew, cook and was an avid reader. Her ability to multi-task was phenomenal. When she wasn't busy with her many interests she worked at the Smith Corona for 32 years. She also made time to bake all the pastries at the Barberosa Restaurant, (now Uncle Louie's Backyard) that she and her husband owned for many years. She is survived by her husband of 71 years, James DiRosa, of Cortland, New York. Together James and Ursula raised four children: Thomas (Camilla) Smith of Provincetown, Ma, Michael Smith of Kenosha, Wi, Teresa (Ken) DiRosa Hamilton of SugarLand, Tx and Jamie Prindle (Ray Bilodeau) of Homer, New York. There are seven grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Ursula was predeceased by her brothers: Joseph, John, Thomas, and James Manderano; her sisters: Teresa Manderano Wasilenko, and Mel Manderano Powers. She is survived by one brother, Robert (Carol) Manderano of Schenectady, New York. Ursula will be remembered for her keen sense of humor and her love for family and life. Funeral arrangements by Wright Beard. Funeral services will be held 12:00 pm November 7, 2014 at the Parkside Assembly of God, 78 Homer Ave, Cortland, The family will be at the church an hour prior to the service to receive friends and family. Interment will be held at St. Mary's Cemetery immediately following the service. The family requests that in lieu of flowers you make a contribution to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America in memory of Ursula at 322 Eighth Ave, 7th Floor, New York, New York or at hospicare.org. To offer online condolences visit www.wright-beard.com