Obituary of Carmela Ida Orlando Federico

Carmela Ida Orlando Federico was born in Piane Crati Italy on January 15, 1919 and went peacefully to heaven on June 12, 2009. She passed away with the knowledge that she was loved, admired and respected by her family and all who were lucky enough to have known her. She will be missed for her giving nature, her sly smile, and for her prayers to Saint Anthony of which we all count on. Carmela is preceded in death by her husband Sam, brother Pat, sister Rose and sister-in-law Catherine who we are sure are awaiting her arrival. She is survived by her daughter Linda Pearn (Steve Harlow) and her son Domenick. She is also survived by her Granddaughter Shannon Zacher (Bob). She will be most missed by her three great grandsons Wyatt, Carson, and Cooper Eddy. She will be missed by her step-great-grand children Ivy Colberg (Sean) and Jessica Russell (Dave). She will be remembered as Big Nana by Anna, Lauren, Charlie, and Cole. She will be forever in the hearts as a favorite Auntie to Louie Orlando (Julie) and Carl Orlando (Janis), and by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. As a matriarch of our family she has taught us so many things, the most important being that family always comes first. We only have to look to her strength as an example of how life should be lead. Carmela worked for many years at Hertzberg Book Bindery and retired in 1981. She enjoyed many activities from cooking Italian delights to a kind hand of poker between friends. She was usually the life of the party where ever she went. Carmela was deeply devoted to St. Rita's Catholic Church and found great comfort in her devotion. She was extremely proud of her Italian heritage and equally as proud of becoming the best American she could be. The family would like to sincerely thank all of our family and friends who fed us, laughed with us, and shared stories of Nana's life. It made this a celebration of her 90 years on earth. We would also like to thank the medical staff at Saint Joseph's Hospital who lead us with gentle hands through this journey. Her final days were spent at Franciscan Hospice House who we truly believe employ "angels on earth" and provided peace to us all. Viewing 2 to 7 p.m Monday at Piper-Morley Chapel. The Rosary will be recited 7 p.m. Tuesday at St. Rita's Catholic Church, 1401 South Ainsworth, Tacoma. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday also at St. Rita's. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Franciscan Hospice House. Arrangements by Piper-Morley Funeral Home 253-472-3353 www.pipermorleymellingerfh.com.