Rosemary Lagano Burns, age 59, of 15 East 7th Street, Dunkirk passed away unexpectedly November 19, 2015 at home. She was born May 3, 1956 in Jamestown, the daughter of the late Dominick and Nina (Palmer) Lagano.
A lifelong resident of Fredonia and Dunkirk, Rosemary graduated from Saint Anthony's Elementary School of Fredonia and from Dunkirk High School, Class of 1974. She was employed at Al Tech Specialty Steel for 22 years as a clerk and secretary. She also worked at the County Home for 10 years.
Rosemary was blessed by growing up in a neighborhood typical of Dunkirk of that era. She and many friends enjoyed the community playground activities, going to Wright Park Beach and pool, and popping a balloon at S.S. Kresge department store lunch counter to get a chance at a low-priced banana split. Rosemary was known in the neighborhood for planning talent shows with her friends and giving performances in her parents' garage for 25 cents. She loved to sing and dance. In her adult life, Rosemary enjoyed traveling and was active in local social clubs.
Rosemary was close to her family, particularly her beloved daughter and only child Leandra Rose, age 19. A dedicated mother, she also loved spending time with her nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was much like a surrogate grandmother to them when her twin sister Kathleen passed away.
Survivors include her daughter, Leandra Rose; two nephews, Neil Timmerman and Jordan Lagano; three great-nieces, Sarah and Emmaleigh Timmerman and Adrina Lagano; two great-nephews, Isa Timmerman and Jax Lagano; and five half-brothers and half-sisters through her biological parents.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial Mass on Friday, December 4 at 10:00 AM in Holy Trinity Church. A celebration of life will follow with a luncheon and music at the Conservation Club.
Donations to "Go Fund Me" at www.gofundme.com/bsc7z3bg would be greatly appreciated by her daughter, Leandra.
Obituary from the Observer
