Dorothy Suriano
Dorothy Suriano, age 91, of Fairfield, CT, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on December 24, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her family. Born July 12, 1932 to the late Silas Klotz and Elizabeth Callahan, Dorothy touched the lives of many with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love. She spent her early years in Rockaway Beach, NY, where she enjoyed the beach and Playland. Dorothy attended Fordham University (Class of 1954), earning a degree in Education, and received her master’s degree from St. John’s University (Class of 1956). She began her career as an elementary school teacher in Lindenhurst, NY.
After marrying her husband, Anthony, they bought their first home and moved to Oceanside, NY, where they raised their family. Dorothy loved spending time with her family and friends. She will be remembered for her family dinners on Sundays and holidays, and the wisdom she shared with those fortunate enough to know her. She enjoyed telling stories about her family and their adventures. She was a Girl Scout leader, Cub Scout Den Mother, and volunteered with the CYO, teaching arts and crafts. After her children were grown, she began a second career in social services. She strongly believed in the importance of education and loved to read with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed going for ice cream after their activities or when they came to visit. Dorothy was devoted and passionate about Bridge and loved to play with friends and at the Fairfield Senior Center.
In her later years, she enjoyed the simple pleasure of watching the birds from her window. But most of all, she loved spending time with Anthony, her children, and grandchildren. Dorothy is survived by her best friend and loving husband of sixty-four years, Anthony. She is also survived by her daughter, Mary LeClerc, and her husband, Bryan, of Fairfield, CT, and their children, Sarah Costagliola (Nicholas) and Christopher; her son, Stephen Suriano, and his wife, Anne, of Westfield, NJ, and their children, Meghan ( Jonathan Graulich), Emily, and Robert; and her daughter, Catherine Singer, and her husband, Andrew, of East Setauket, NY, and their children, Elizabeth and Jonah. Dorothy also leaves behind several nieces and nephews; and her loving and caring aide, Valerie Suvernay, and her daughter, Cierra.
A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Dorothy’s life will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at St. Pius X Church, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield. Her interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Daughters of Wisdom, 385 Ocean Avenue, Islip, NY 11751 ( www.daughtersofwisdom.org ); a cause close to Dorothy’s heart since her introduction to the sisters during high school at Our Lady of Wisdom Academy. She was also fond of The Connecticut Audubon Society, 314 Daughters Road, Fairfield, CT 06824 ( ctaudubon.org ). May Dorothy rest in eternal peace, and may her memory bring comfort to those who mourn her loss. For travel directions or to sign her online guest register, please visit www. LeskoFuneralHome.com