Ilario Romano

Peacefully on Monday, June 5th, Ilario Romano, son of Rosa (Mandarano) and Guiseppe Romano, passed on. He was born on February 18th, 1936, in Sant Ilario, Italy, and was the youngest of six children: Pietro, Maria, Domenico, Guiseppe, and Antonio. He was raised to appreciate the little things in life and lived simply but loved grandly. He is survived by the love of his life, Maria, and their two daughters, Rosa Maria (Mike) Lanuka and Marisa (Corey) Bragg. Nonno lived for his grandchildren: Justin, Amanda, and Jamie Lanuka.

Ilario and Maria wed on March 1st, 1964, and set an example of hard work and commitment for their children and grandchildren. He was most proud that he bought their home across the street from the church and that (his girls had the opportunity for an education he did not have. Ilario had many skills but loved gardening, making sausage, and winemaking. Throughout McKees Rocks, you could be sure to see him around town at the flea market or grocery stores as he made his rounds to get the best deals and was not embarrassed by getting the most for his dollar. He haggled with the best of them and didn’t care how long it took to get the deal he wanted. 

Never concentrating on extravagant gifts, he could always be counted on for many stories about a deal he got or something about his life in Italy. Ilario will be missed by all he leaves behind, both here and in Italy. 

In lieu of flowers and for his passion for Catholic education, contributions in memory may be made to Our Lady of Sacred Heart School, 1504 Woodcrest Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ilario Romano, please visit our floral store.