In Loving Memory of Antoinette Bertola

Antoinette Bertola passed into eternal life on November 14, 2024, following a brief illness. Antoinette was born in the coal mining town of Brilliant, New Mexico on December 23, 1931, to Vincenzo and Adelina (Rea) Vallucci, who immigrated to the United States from Arpino, Italy. When Antoinette was 11 years old, the family moved to Raton, where she lived for the remainder of her life.

Antoinette attended and graduated from Raton Public Schools in 1949. Once united in marriage to her husband, Joseph Bertola, she found joy as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Antoinette was a long-time parishioner of Saint Patrick’s – Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church. She cherished her Catholic faith, praying the Holy Rosary daily, and attending Mass until she was unable to do so.

Antoinette was predeceased by her parents; husband, Joseph; son, Fred; brothers Frank and Tony Vallucci; and sisters, Bertha Trollinger and Loretta Moore. She is survived by sons, Michael (Cheri) and Joseph Stephen (Petra); daughter, Marisa Aguirre (Steve); special granddaughter and caregiver, Alisa Levandoski (Trevor); four sisters; several other grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

The family would like to thank all who expressed their friendship, love, and concern for Antoinette, especially sisters, Pasqualina Sciacca, sharing a special bond and raising their families together, and Elena Aston, a constant and caring presence in her life. The family is also grateful to niece Julie Bachechi, who showered Antoinette with kindness and devotion during her final illness.

Antoinette will be remembered fondly for her wonderful cooking and baking, especially her bread items, which she continued to prepare until her health declined. Typical of an Italian mother, her family could not visit her home without eating or taking something with them.

Recitation of the Holy Rosary for Antoinette will be led by The Legion of Mary on December 4, 2024, at Saint Patrick’s – Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church at 11:00 am. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 am with Rev. William Woytavich as the celebrant. Interment, with the Rite of Committal, will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery immediately after the service.

Pallbearers are Nathan Aguirre, Jason Bartel, Timothy Bertola, Brian Hennigan, Duncan Levandoski, and Richard Ortiz.

In lieu of flowers or food, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, American Gold Star Mothers, or the charity of your choice.

The arrangements and celebration of love for Antoinette Bertola are under the direction of the Alderette-Pomeroy Funeral Home.