Rose Argenti Girimonti Remembered

by Ronald J. Girimonti

When I was two years old my parents, John and Frances Girimonti, separated. Unfortunately, I didn't see much of my dad, but luckily I did see my Grandma Rose a lot. We lived on DeKalb Avenue in Brooklyn, New York while Grandma Rose lived only a few blocks away on Marcy Avenue. She was gentle, kind, giving, and a lot of fun to be with. It was always a treat to see her.

I remember when I was a teenager, my grandma moved to Ridgewood, Queens, New York. At the time, I was sad because I thought I wouldn't be able to see her as often as I had. However, that wasn't the case because my mom, Fanny (that's what they nicknamed her), gave me bus fare even though she had very little money. As a result, I got to visit my grandma at least once a week.

Grandma Rose spent many hours teaching me how to play cards (mostly Poker). She loved playing cards and so did I. To this day, my aunt Grace, aunt Jeanette, and uncle Ben (three of my grandma's children) still enjoy getting together with me and my family to play cards. Thanks to my grandma, who taught me well, I usually win.

I'm happy because my wife Margot had the chance to meet Grandma Rose. My wife met her shortly before my grandma passed away in February of 1964. I only wish my children, Fran and Daron, would have had the same opportunity to know and love her as I did. I still think of Grandma Rose often and fondly remember all the good times we have shared together.