Anita Criscione Battafarano , June 06, 1928 — September 08, 2018

Avon Lake – Anita Battafarano, age 90, died suddenly on Saturday, September 8, 2018. She was currently residing at Independence Village in Avon Lake, OH. Anita was born on June 6, 1928 to Stephen and Mary Criscione in Girard, OH.

She was a graduate of Youngstown College where she met the love of her life, Jim. They were married on December 27, 1952 and remained so for almost 61 years. Together, they raised three children, Marianne (Lawrence), James (Kathy), and Stephen (Deborah).

In addition to her three children, Anita is survived by four grandchildren; three great grandchildren; her sister, Virginia (John) Janacone; and brother, Dr. James S. (Lois) Criscione. Anita will be missed by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends that she spoke of often and treasured dearly. Anita was a retired teacher, working three years in Youngstown City Schools and 30 years in Girard City School where she taught first grade.

She was a mentor to many. Anita’s special interest was teaching children to read. In the 60s, she had reel to reel tape recorders on a table at the back of her classroom.

There, children could listen and read along to schoolbooks taped by her husband. She was hoping to see if use of hearing and sight would improve reading and comprehension. The children considered it a special treat!

When living in Youngstown, Anita was an active parishioner at St. Anthony of Padua Church where, for many years, she served on parish council along with her husband, Jim. She was a member of the St. Elizabeth Hospital Auxiliary, now Mercy Health. Anita was an avid reader and a beloved fan of the Cleveland Indians.

Her family would like to thank the staff of Independence Village and Visiting Angels of Berea for their kindness and care. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Anthony of Padua Church on Thursday, September 13, 2018 at 11am. Family will receive visitors at the church one hour prior to liturgy beginning at 11.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions may be sent in Anita’s memory to the Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart, 50 Warner Rd, Hubbard, OH 44425.

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