GLENS FALLS – Claudia Villa Bizzarro, of Glens Falls, formerly of Larchmont, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, April 11, 2016, of natural causes.
Born on February 1, in Torino, Italy, she was the daughter of the late Fioravante and Albina (Riccio) Bizzarro.
Claudia began performing at an early age with her family troupe, throughout Italy and around the world. She enjoyed performing and singing with her sisters. Later she branched out into a solo singing career. She moved to the United States as an adult, where she continued singing. Claudia grew in notoriety in Italian circles in New York City. She recorded several records in Spain, even dedicating a record to the Lake George area, a place she held dear to her heart.
Claudia owned and operated the former Granger Cottages on Lake George for many years.
She was a communicant of St. Alphonsus Church and St. Mary’s Church in Glens Falls, where she served as canter for many years.
Although she was a small woman, Claudia was larger than life. She will be missed by all.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sisters, Carolina Tedone, Giselle Bizzarro and Maria Didonato.
Survivors include her son, Jesse Maiolo and his companion, Sandy Otero of Glens Falls; her beloved granddaughter, Lauren Maiolo of New Rochelle; her three sisters, Josephine Ricker of New Rochelle, Iole Tedone and Adele Pugno, both of Italy; two brothers, Pasquale Bizzarro of New Rochelle and Sal Bizzarro of Colorado; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Services will take place in New Rochelle at a later date.
Memorial donations may be sent to St. Mary’s Church, 62 Warren Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801.