Euriella “Loretta” Lanteri Ostuni, 93, died peacefully in her home December 24, with her partner of 32 years, Earl William “Bill” Wood, by her side. She was the daughter of the late Ceserina (Pasano) Lanteri and Cesare Lanteri of Italy.

Her children Deborah (Ostuni) and James Stiewing of Newtown, Dennis Bellesheim Ostuni and Alice Clarke of Gainesville, Fla., and Victor Joseph, Jr and Diane Ostuni of Naugatuck; ten grandchildren, Vickie White, Debbie Kilian, Chelsa Tomasello, Brook and her husband, Eric Pechenko, Glenn Stiewing, Jessica and her husband, Thomas Ragusa, Aaron Ostuni, Derek Ostuni, Michael Ostuni and his wife, Laura Merrill, and Gina and her husband, Jeffrey Hepp; 11 great-grandchildren and two on the way survive Mrs Ostuni, as well as do her loving nieces and nephews. Her beloved husband of 34 years, Victor Joseph Ostuni, Sr; her daughter-in-law Betty Anne (Morse) Bellesheim; and five sisters and three brothers and their spouses predeceased her, with the exception a 98-year-old sister-in-law.

Mrs Ostuni was a fashion model in the garment district of Manhattan. During the war she worked as “Rosie the Riveter.” After marrying Victor she became a devout homemaker and interior decorator. They moved from the Bronx to Connecticut, where she was featured in Better Homes & Gardens for her impeccable taste in home fashion. Mrs Ostuni enjoyed a wonderful life with her large family. She found pleasure in hosting parties for family and friends.

Calling hours will be Monday, December 28, from 2 to 4 pm, and 6 to 8 pm, in the Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown. A service will take place at 8 pm. Interment will be Tuesday, December 29 at 10:30 am, in Newtown Village Cemetery, 20 Elm Drive, Newtown.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Newtown Ambulance Association, PO Box 344, Newtown CT 06470.

To leave an online condolence visit www.honanfh.com.