Clara Castellese

Clara A. Castellese, 72 years, of Monroe, MI went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, December 18, 2012 in Toledo, OH. Clara had been in declining health for the past year and bravely fought cancer. Born March 15, 1940 in Erie, MI, Clara was the daughter of the late Clarence and Clara (Bruesharaber) Schwartz. Clara was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Erie where she attended elementary school. She went on to attend St. Mary’s Academy in Monroe. On October 12, 1957, Clara married her beloved husband, Frank J. “Cheech” Castellese, Sr., at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Erie, MI. Clara was a member of St. Michael The Archangel Catholic Church in Monroe. Clara worked as a clerk for Foodtown Super Market in Monroe for 10 years. Although she worked outside the home, Clara was a wonderful homemaker, and an incredible cook. Clara enjoyed watching old movies on television and playing cards and taking trips to the casino with her family. Most of all Clara will be remembered as a kind and loving person who was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister aunt, and friend to all who knew her. Clara is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, Frank “Cheech”, four loving children: Connie F. (Al) Porreca of Temperance, MI, Frank J. (fiancé, Yvonne) Castellese of Flat Rock, MI, Julie A. (Kevin) Castellese – Kelsey of Monroe and Michael J. (Carrie) Castellese of Temperance, MI, five cherished grandchildren: Nick Castellese of Flat Rock, MI, Jeff (Heather) Blanchett of Carleton, MI, Ashley (Ben) Hansen of Newport, MI, Christina (fiancé, Justin) Bray of Ida, MI and Anthony Castellese of Toledo, OH, three treasured great grandchildren: Adrianna Blanchett, Abriella Blanchett and Bailey Bray, six siblings: C.J. (Margi) Schwartz of Erie, MI, Bobby (Vivian) Schwartz of Erie, MI, Carl (Jenny) Schwartz of Ottawa Lake, MI, Nancy Schwartz of Toledo, OH, Shirley (Arnie) Meinhart of Erie, MI, and Rosemary (Kenny) Walker of Waldron, MI. In addition to her parents, Clara was preceded in death by a daughter in law: Susan Castellese, and two brothers: Norman and Jimmy Schwartz. In keeping with Clara’s wishes cremation will be held and there will be no visitation or services. The Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., in Monroe is assisting her family with funeral arrangements.