Rachael C. Battisti, age 93, of Bloomsburg, passed away Saturday, November 5, 2022, surrounded by her loving family and under the care of UPMC Hospice. Rachael was a resident of her home in Bloomsburg for over 57 years.
She was born on Sunday, November 18, 1928 in Hazleton, a daughter of the late Guido "Guy" and Catherine Helena (Martini) Callovini. She graduated from the Hazleton High School. She was married to her loving husband, Albert L. Battisti for over 50 years, when he preceded her in death on June 28, 2006. Rachael was a homemaker, who volunteered for a number of years with The Bloomsburg Hospital Auxiliary, acting as buyer for the hospital gift shop during her tenure. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who spent much time saving money by sewing and canning homegrown vegetables and fruits. Rachael was a crafter who loved needlework and quilting, frequently entering her items in the Bloomsburg Fair. She was most delighted with the handmade gifts she often made for her beloved grandchildren.
Rachael had a keen interest in learning new things and delighted in her many functional and fanciful ceramic items. Gardening was a pastime as well, with her special herb garden and many colorful flowerbeds. She was a wonderful home cook who loved trying new recipes, evidenced by her large cookbook collection and numerous card file boxes of handwritten recipes. Most recently, Rachael spent her time doing what she loved best: cooking by proxy with PBS cook Lidia Bastianich in the company of her newest friend, Sherre. After the loss of her husband, Albert, Rachael delighted in music to keep her company, often falling to sleep with the radio.
In addition to her parents, and husband she was also preceded in death by a sister, Virginia Defina.
Survivors include her two daughters, Christine Battisti Brown of Bloomsburg, Carla Ann Marsters and husband Charles, three grandchildren Kaylee Fischer, Sherrod Christopher Fischer, and Kateri Lynn Eck and husband Gabe, all of Bloomsburg.
Private graveside committal services will be held at the convenience of the family at New Rosemont Cemetery, Bloomsburg. The Allen Funeral Home, Inc. 745 Market at Eighth Street, Bloomsburg is honored to be serving the Battisti family.
Memorial contributions in Rachael's name are suggested to: UPMC Hospice,1100 Grampian Blvd, Williamsport, PA 17701.