Michelina Ann (Sodano) Gradito

Michelina Ann Gradito (Sodano) 102 of North Port, FL and formerly of Fitchburg, MA passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 15, 2022 surrounded by her family.  Michelina was born April 28, 1920, the daughter of the late Raimondo and Vincenza Sodano. “Mickey” was the 5th of 6 children, the only girl - and a twin of Joseph Sodano. Mickey was predeceased by her siblings John, Charles, Frank, Joseph, and Raymond.

Michelina met the love of her life, Gino Gradito, and they were married in Fitchburg, MA on November 1, 1940. They honeymooned in NYC. They were blessed with three children, Carol (Edward Haueisen), Dennis (Barbara Jeffreys), and Debra (Gregory Fisher), as well as 3 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren, in addition to many much-loved nephews, nieces, and cousins.

She worked at Independent Lock in Fitchburg, MA and was an aid at the South Street Nursing Home caring for her own mother and other residents. In 1971, the couple retired to North Port Charlotte, FL. Mickey continued to work part time for General Development Corporation, was kitchen staff at Kissin’ Cuzzins restaurant, and later on worked delivering flowers for Arts in Flowers.

Mickey loved to cook and spend time gathering around the family table. The family gathered whenever possible for her homemade sauce, meatballs, sausage, and Italian meals. She enjoyed visiting with family and friends especially over the holidays and she could be seen riding her bike to and from Publix. It was always a lively house and everyone was welcome.

Calling hours are Wednesday, October 26, 2022 from 9am-11am at Lavery-Chartrand-Alario Funeral Home, 99 Summer Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420. A small service will follow at St.Bernard’s Cemetery and a collation meal at the Knights of Columbus, 165 Electric Ave. Fitchburg, MA 01420.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, and/or Tidewell Hospice - Port Charlotte Hospice House 1158 Veronica Street Port Charlotte, FL 33952, in the name of Michelina Gradito.