Catherine Claria Tolisano

September 3, 1927 - August 7, 2016

Catherine (Polidoro) Tolisano, 88, of Hartford, died after a courageous battle with acute leukemia. She was the widow of Peter Tolisano Sr. who passed away in 1997. Catherine was born on September 3, 1927 in Tufo di Minturno, Italy. She immigrated to the United States in 1964. She proudly earned her citizenship shortly thereafter. Catherine was a talented tailor. She also held lifelong passions for cooking and gardening. Upon coming to America, Catherine was employed as a seamstress in New York City and then in Connecticut. Catherine is survived by her beloved son and daughter-in-law Dr. Peter and Lisa Tolisano of Middletown, her sister, Madeline, and brother, Matthew, both of Italy, as well as several nieces and nephews, and many friends. Catherine was predeceased by her bothers Joseph of New York and Anthony of Italy. Peter and Lisa would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to many of Catherine’s caregivers. Most especially, Dr. Santo Buccheri and his staff, Dr. Savvas Mintatos and his staff, Florence Martin of Companions and Homemakers, Andrea Barrington of Hartford Healthcare at Home, and the staff at Hartford Hospital’s Gray Cancer Center. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society and the Connecticut Humane Society in honor of Catherine’s black Labrador “Beauty” who she adored. A private burial will be held on Monday, August 15, 2016 at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Rocky Hill.