Margaret R. Ognibene, 95, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Niagara Hospice House. Born and raised in Niagara Falls, she was the daughter of the late Pasquale and Clara (S'dao) Buffone.

Margaret graduated from Niagara Falls High School and began working at the former International Papermill. On February 27, 1960, she married the love of her life, Ignazio "Nash" Ognibene, at St. Joseph's Church. Together, they built a legacy of devotion, raising four children and opening Casa Nova Ristorante in the Town of Niagara in 1976. Margaret and Nash were inseparable working side by side daily to create a warm and welcoming space for their customers. They would later pass the restaurant on to their son John, who still features Margaret's well-loved recipes. Nash predeceased her on April 19, 2018 after 58 memorable years together.

Margaret enjoyed watching game shows, playing on her tablet, as well as cooking and baking. Above all, Margaret's boundless love for her family was the heartbeat of her life. Time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was her greatest joy.

Mrs. Ognibene is survived by her children, Catherine (Douglas) Potter, John (Lisa) Ognibene, Nancy (David) DalPorto and Maria Ognibene; her grandchildren, Gianna (Timothy) Carroll, Danielle (Christopher) Mesi, Francesca (fiancé Daniel Kuligowski) Ognibene, Vincent Arist and was sadly predeceased by her beloved grandson, Michael Ognibene. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Olivia, Emma and Sophia Carroll, and Giovanni and Santino Mesi; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her brothers, Joseph (late Rosalie) Buffone and Frank (late June) Buffone and her sisters, Isabel Hoffman, Maryann (late Joseph) Figurilli and Frances Buffone.

There will be no prior visitation. Margaret's Mass of Chrisitan Burial will be held on Wednesday, July 23 at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph's Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301. Please assemble at church. Entombment will follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery. Memorial offerings in Margaret's memory may be made to Niagara Hospice at niagarahospice.org.

Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.