Charlene C. Fontana

Charlene C. Fontana, 78, of Rumford, RI, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Tuesday, October 25, 2022.

Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Herbert and Sophie (Sikorski) Strobeck. Charlene is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Joseph Fontana, daughter Lori Beckel (Fontana) and her husband Derek of Johnston, son Jon Fontana and his wife Joelle of Bristol, along with grandsons, Dean-Joseph Beckel and Logan Fontana, two sisters, Romaine Moore and Diane Ahern, and many nieces and nephews.

Charlene attended St. Patrick High School in Providence, RI. After graduation, Charlene made a career as the office receptionist and assistant for Dr. Milton Levin, D.D.S. where she became an important and valued part of the team. Charlene was loved by all as she always greeted everyone with a warm smile as they entered the office.

Charlene was a loving, caring wife and a wonderful, supportive mother. Her greatest joy was being with her two children and their families. Charlene adored her grandsons and the time she spent with them. She would often be found playing hide-and-seek with them, swinging with them on her backyard swing, or lovingly watching over them as they slept. Most people who knew Charlene knew she wanted to make people happy. Referred to many times as the life of the party, she enjoyed making people laugh and being silly. Charlene loved her family with all of her heart and always was there to provide support in a time of need, listen or lend a helping hand.

Charlene’s cooking was outstanding and her baked macaroni will be missed by all. She loved to craft and decorate her home for the holidays. She created handmade wreaths, bears, bunnies and more for all the holidays and was always willing to make one of her crafts for anyone who asked. Charlene’s loving personality brought joy to all who knew her and she will be truly missed.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, October 30, from 4-7 p.m. at Perry-McStay Funeral Home, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence. Her funeral will be held on Monday, October 31, 2022 at 8:30 a.m. from the funeral home with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Robert Bellarmine Church, 1804 Atwood Avenue, Johnston. Burial will take place at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, Riverside.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a memorial donation be made to HopeHealth Hospice Care. www.hopehealthco.org.