Rose King, 98, of Branford died peacefully on Feb. 16 with her family by her side. Rose was born on Sept. 13, 1918, in New Haven to the late Palma and Alfredo Bergami. At the age of 40, she lost her husband Dino Neri. Several years later she married the late Joseph King. In her 70’s she met her beloved Dominic DePonte while working at Canoe Brook Senior Center. They spent the next 22 years together until his passing in 2016. Rose was also predeceased by her sister Delia Volpe.
Rose retired from the University of New Haven in 1980, where she was responsible for many accounting functions for the university. After her retirement, she relocated to Slanesville, West Virginia, where she held the position of assistant postmaster. She trained in the Slanesville “Project Teach” program, where she tutored individual students. She also volunteered for the Hampshire County Congregational Cooperative Action Project, the Winchester Medical Hospital, and served as president for the Slanesville Homemakers of West Virginia.
Upon her return to Branford, Rose worked for the Town of Branford as a receptionist for town meetings at the Senior Center until the age of 90. “Rosie” was a sweet, kind, and gentle woman. She had a zest for life, enjoyed traveling, and her trips to the Metropolitan Opera and Broadway musicals, and she loved to dance. Most of all, she loved being with her family on holidays and at family get-togethers, reminiscing with her many stories.
Rose is survived by her daughter Dorothy Mascola (Charles) of Branford, as well as her beloved four-legged fur baby Zac. “Nanny Rose” is also survived by grandchildren Cindy (Joseph) DiPalma of South Meriden and Charles Mascola of Hamden; great-grandchildren Chelsea and Anthony Madonna, and Jessica and Maria Mascola; and a great-great grandchild, Ella. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Guilford House.
Visiting hours were held Feb. 21 at the W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 N. Main St., Branford. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated in St. Mary Church. Burial followed in St. Lawrence Cemetery, West Haven. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association or to an organization of your choice. Rosie will be sadly missed by all and will remain forever in our hearts.
