ALBANY – Theresa “Tess” Bonanni, 99, passed away on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at St. Peter’s Hospital. Tess was born in Albany, the daughter of the late Michael Sgambelluri and Pauline Leone Sgambelluri. She lived in the area nearly all her life and was married for over fifty years to Vincent A. Bonanni, who died in 1993. She attended Philip Schuyler High School, and was employed as a waitress at several restaurants in Albany including at the DeWitt Clinton and Ten Eyck Hotels. For many years she was co-owner of the very popular Paramount Lounge in Schenectady, where guests consistently raved about her fabulous meals and cooking. She also was an early and active member of the Italian American Community center where she sat on and chaired a number of committees. She also was a member of the West Albany Italian Benevolent Society, and the American Italian Heritage Association, Museum and Cultural Center. She was a communicant of All Saints Catholic Church and the former St. Margaret Mary’s church, where she was very active in the senior citizens group. Tess loved people and they loved her. She touched the lives of so many who became and remained friends. She led a full life and enjoyed many activities including bowling, bocci, and visiting casinos.
Tess is survived by her children JoAnn Collins (Fred) of Colonie, E. Virginia Pezzula (William) of Colonie, and Vincent M. Bonanni (Maureen) of Guilderland; her brother Michael Sgambelluri (Yvonne) of Loudonville; her sisters in law Grace Sgambelluri of Rotterdam, and Lucy Hirst of New York City; her grandchildren Deana Ryan (Scott), Thomas Graziano (Sandi), and Sheri Sablich (DJ); her great grandchildren Jason and Brandon Ryan, and Vincent and Maria Sablich; many nieces and nephews, and by her loyal, caring, and wonderful friends. She was predeceased by her sister Rosemary Van Alstyne; and by her brothers Joseph, Francis, Arthur, and Anthony Sgambelluri.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in All Saints Catholic Church, 16 Homestead St., Albany (behind CVS) Monday morning, December 20, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the church after the mass from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Entombment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park, Colonie. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hans Funeral Home, Albany. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to All Saints Catholic Church, mailing address 12 Rosemont St., Albany, NY 12203. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
This is a video tribute to Tess:
Michele Sgambelluri
I said a prayer not knowing what to say. I selfishly wanted you to stay, but I knew you were in pain. I left it up to heaven to decide, not realizing the angels were close by. In the silence of the night, they came and carried you home. Many hearts are broken, but we will always have wonderful memories and stories of you to cherish and share.
Becky Williams
Prayers for the family. She was a great lady I remember her giving us treats as a young child. We lived next door “Jensky family”. Bonnie and Maureen always helped my mom. Phyllis.
Donna Luciano
I lived next door to Tess growing up and she was a good friend and neighbor to my mom. I have many happy memories of Tess, especially her beautiful smile and spunky personality.
Her food was always delicious, especially her soup. Her kindness and thoughtfulness will always be remembered. I am sure my mom was waiting for her with open arms.
Rest In Peace sweet lady.
Lucy Maynard-Carbonello
Ginny, Billy and family, I’m sending my deepest sympathy to you at this difficult time. I will always remember her love of life and family. May she rest peacefully.
Lucy Maynard-Carbonello
Marsha Sullivan
I am saddened by our loss of Tess. She was so special. I feel blessed to have known her.
I will miss our long phone conversations with her humor. Rest in peace, Tess. you brought
joy to a lot of people. You were so loved and will be missed by so many.
Donna Parker
Ginny and family, please know my thoughts, prayers and heart are with you for the loss of your dear Mom. I will sure miss seeing her at Saratoga and that beautiful smile. May she Rest In Peace. Donna Zanella Parker
Patricia Schwab
Vince, JoAnn, Ginny, and family,
My heart is heavy. I’m sending my condolences and love, knowing you had a great mom and shared so many wonderful times. For about 55 years, I was included as a part of your family, from the bowling days, Paramount Lounge, girls’ outings at a casino, to enjoying so much fabulous food and Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve prepared by her with love. So many great memories to smile about. She will be greatly missed. Love you sweet Tess.
Pat Schwab
Ft. Lauderdale
Mary Lou Ritz
Ginny and Billy and Family. So sorry to hear about your mother’s passing. She was indeed a wonderful lady and she will be greatly missed. Please our deepest condolences. May she Rest In Peace.
Philip J. DiNovo
Our sincere sympathy to the family of Tess. We valued her as a member and her friendship. She was a dear lady who will be missed. May she rest in peace.
Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo, President
Pamela Pouchak
Tess was a kind and loving women. She will be remembered. Prayers to her family during this difficult time.
Ashley Planz
Aunt Tess,
You were an amazing woman. Someone who did not hold back and told everyone like it was. You loved your family and friends so much and they all loved you. I know you are where you wanted to be with Uncle Vince and all the siblings. You will be forever missed. Give everyone kisses and hugs from us. Love you
Skolnik
“Tess loved people and they loved her.” They sure did! Her youthfulness and vivacious, spirited personality so impressed our teenage son that we actually had the good fortune to get to know her… One of the greatest blessings is that she has shared these wonderful traits with the women in her life.
May memories of her warm family’s and friends’ hearts for lifetimes.
In celebration of a beautiful soul,
Suzanne, David and Darren