James Giardino, 98, passed away on Monday, February 17, 2014, and his wife Catherine (Morelli) Giardino, 95, passed away Sunday February 23, 2014, both at their Niagara Falls residence, while under the care of Niagara Hospice. Catherine was born and educated in Tyler, PA, and was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mamie (Santorsola) Morelli. Born and educated in San Pietro, Italy, James was the son of the late Salvatore and Anna (Rizzo) Giardino and he came to the United States with his family at the age of seven.

On September 28, 1940 they were married in Tyler, PA and moved to Niagara Falls, NY. During World War II, James served in the U.S. Army from April 27, 1943 until his honorable discharge on November 11, 1945. He was employed as a Maintenance Technician at Union Carbide Corporation in Niagara Falls, and retired after thirty-six years of service. They were longtime and devoted parishioners at the former Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Niagara Falls, NY, where James served as an usher for over forty years, and were members of the parish social club. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. James was a physical fitness enthusiast and particularly enjoyed golf and swimming, and was a fifty year member of the Y.M.C.A. in Niagara Falls. Catherine will be remembered for her love of baking, excellent cooking and friendly attitude to all those she encountered.

James and Catherine are survived by their son, James J. (Linda) Giardino of Scottsdale, AZ. Catherine is survived by her brother, Joseph (Rose) Morelli of Valencia, CA, and James is survived by two sisters, Mary (late Ralph) Winkler of DuBois, PA and Rose (late Ralph) Guido of Penfield, PA, and their many nieces and nephews. Catherine was predeceased by two brothers, Peter (Mary of Penfield, PA) Morelli, John (late Virginia) Morelli, and two sisters, Margaret (late Frank) Segalla, and Dinah (late Mickey) Maholtz.

The Giardino family would like to extend their appreciation and gratitude to James' and Catherine's healthcare aides for the kind and compassionate care given to them, and also the love and kindness shown to them by niece Diana (Donald) Uberti.

There will be no prior visitation. Private funeral services and entombment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094. Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304.