Published in the April 20, 2018 edition
MALDEN — Grace M. (Deyab) Pesaturo, 85, of Malden, formerly of Medford, died peacefully at Courtyard Nursing Care Center in Medway on Tuesday, April 10, 2018, after a long illness.
Grace was born in Medford on February 18, 1933, one of six children of the late George and Mary (Hakar) Deyab. Grace was the only daughter of six children, and lost her mother at the age of two. The early adversity faced as a child turned her into a strong individual later in life.
Grace graduated from Medford High School in 1951 where she excelled in sports. She played tennis, volleyball, softball, and basketball. Bowling was another favorite of hers. She played in a number of leagues, and was the world record holder in the single and triple for Candlepin bowling.
Grace met James C. Pesaturo while she was working at M&M Trucking. They would go on to get married on November 23, 1957. She went to work at the Commercial Union Insurance Company, retiring as an Assistant Divisional leader. They raised their family in Medford, where she was very involved in her husband’s and son’s life. Early on, they enjoyed spending summers on the Cape, and later went on numerous trips around the New England area.
Grace was the rock of the family. Her strength and loyalty helped guide them through any of life’s troubles. She and James looked forward to going out to eat together, especially at The Hilltop. As her husband became ill, Grace took care of him until his passing 2008.
Italian cooking was one of Grace’s passions. Her specialty was making meatballs, and she always was willing to teach family and friends how to do it just like she did. As a woman who was proud of her Syrian heritage, she also had a few Syrian dishes she enjoyed making and sharing with those she loved and cared about.
Beyond cooking Grace was a great dancer, and enjoyed playing cards at the Everett, Saugus, and Winthrop Senior Centers, where she made many wonderful friendships. She enjoyed trips to Las Vegas, Foxwoods, and time spent playing Bingo.
Grace was a sweet, strong, and loving woman who will be dearly missed by her family and all those she has touched over her 85 years.
Grace is the beloved wife of the late James C. Pesaturo with whom she shared 51 years of marriage. Devoted mother of James M. Pesaturo and his wife Patricia of Malden. Loving sister of the late Albert Deyab, Charles Deyab, George Deyab, Robert Deyab, and Edward Deyab. Cherished grandmother of Terrell G. Pesaturo of Malden.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Grace’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Monday, April 16, and again on Tuesday for her funeral service. Interment was in Forest Dale Cemetery, Malden.
Donations in Grace’s memory may be made to Compassionate Care Hospice, Attn. Casey Allman, 800 West Cummings Park, Suite 3100, Woburn, MA 01801 For online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
