Gabriele Valastro Obituary

Gabriele Valastro

August 10, 1931 - December 5, 2024

With a heart full of love, Gabriele Valastro departed from this world on December 5, 2024, in Sarasota, Fla., at the age of 93, surrounded by her cherished family.

Born in the enchanting landscapes of Austria on August 10, 1931, her journey intertwined with that of her husband, Angelo Valastro, whom she met during WWII while he was stationed in Germany. Their love blossomed, leading them to the town of Whitehall, N.Y., before they found their paradise in Lake George, a place Gabriele deemed the most beautiful on earth.

Gabriele's spirit thrived amidst nature's wonders - fishing, foraging for mushrooms, uncovering arrowheads, and ultimately, weaving her love into quilts that became treasures for her family.

A distinguished member of the Lake George Garden Club, she garnered numerous ribbons for her exquisite flower arrangements, her artistry celebrated by many. Friends and relatives often joined her on nature walks through Battlefield Park, where she could identify every tree and plant. Her enthusiasm sometimes led to playful culinary adventures, where you might find yourself sampling a mushroom or flower she deemed edible, and with a mix of trepidation and trust, you would partake, relieved to have lived to tell the tale.

With a yearning for gardening that her Lake George home could not accommodate, Gabriele and Angelo sought refuge in Comstock, where they nurtured a bountiful garden for years, joyfully sharing their harvest with friends. They tapped into the magic of spring, gathering sap from maple trees to craft their own syrup, a sweet testament to their love for the land.

Their adventures continued on the shores of Lake Champlain, where Gabriele's keen eye discovered arrowheads and artifacts, including a remarkable coin from the Revolutionary War.

Many will fondly recall gathering around her kitchen table, indulging in her delightful German baking, including linzer torte and apple strudel, each bite a cherished memory.

Gabriele was predeceased by her beloved husband, Angelo; her precious granddaughter, Sabrina; and her dear brothers and sisters-in-law. She is survived by her son, Joseph (Lorilee) Valastro of Auburn, Mass.; her daughter, Terry (Kenan) Ryan of Lake George and Sarasota; grandchildren, Gabrielle, Michael (Kara), Joseph (Carrie), Stephen, Kerri Sullivan (John); and great-grandchildren, Cashel, Audrey, Nadine, and Michael Joseph.

In September, a celebration of her vibrant life will take place in Lake George, where her spirit will continue to bloom in the hearts of those who loved her.