Elda Gazzaniga, 96
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Elda Gazzaniga, 96, died Friday, Feb. 26, 2010, at home.
Born in Lynn on Nov. 4, 1913, a daughter of Amedeo and Carmela Vernava DelCiello, she was a graduate of the former Salem Teachers College.
Mrs. Gazzaniga began her teaching career in 1935. In 1938, she moved to Adams and joined the faculty of the business department of the former Adams High School. She taught classes and was a class adviser for many years. After her retirement, she taught in the business department of McCann Technical School.
A talented artist, she was known for her gold-leaf painting and exquisite needlework. She was an active and well-loved volunteer at the David and Joyce Milne Public Library in Williamstown, and was the longest-serving volunteer at the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, volunteering until her death. She was a patron of the arts, and a member of the Red Hats.
Mrs. Gazzaniga traveled the world extensively, absorbing its culture and art. She shared her talents with family and friends, crafting memories for those who received her gifts. She was adored by her nieces and nephews and many friends. Free-spirited and open-minded, she left many lives richer for having known her, said family. She was a good and loving woman who will be missed.
She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Toni Gazzaniga of Highland Mills, N.Y; a grandson, David Angelo Gazzaniga and his wife, Christine Ewing, of Highland, Utah; her great-granddaughters Alma Grace Gazzaniga and Sophia Hope Gazzaniga, both of Highland, and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, Angelo Louis Gazzaniga Sr., and her son, Angelo Louis Gazzaniga Jr.
FUNERAL NOTICE — A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations in Mrs. Gazzaniga's memory may be made to either the David and Joyce Milne Public Library or to VNA & Hospice of Northern Berkshire through the Flynn and Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, Central Chapels, 74 Marshall St., North Adams, MA 01247.