Dolores Felice

After a short illness, Dolores Felice (Giannavola), 94, was happily reunited with her beloved husband, Stephen W. Felice, on October 6, 2023. She was the last living member of her seven siblings & never met her twin who died at birth.

Dolores had a difficult childhood, working long hours to support the family business. Although extremely athletic, her dreams of becoming a PE teacher had to be put aside to continue family work obligations. In her rare moments of leisure, she enjoyed playing volleyball & practicing the violin. After meeting the love of her life at a dance, she began her busy married life. She helped raise three daughters, cooked homemade meals, and kept a spotless home--all while pinching pennies. Dolores or "Dee" as she was called, was a selfless, devoted wife & mother and made every event a celebration of family & food. She always remembered people's birthdays & special events and had an assortment of cards ready to mail. She was the first to offer help to her family and friends and enjoyed their companionship.

Dolores was referred to as the energizer bunny. She rarely sat down & believed in a healthy diet & active lifestyle. She loved to dance & listen to all genres of music. After entering assisted living in the last 6 years of her life, she became the 5-year President of the Resident Council, a Wii bowling expert, a creative artist, & a member of the chorus. She seldom missed a social event and cherished her large circle of friends who enjoyed her sharp mind, natural intuition, & caring nature.
Dolores is survived by her daughters, June Johnson (Timothy), Sandra Heerkens (Gary) & Gail Cassas; grandchildren, Stephanie, Gregory, Christopher, Russell, Nicholas, & Gianna; great grandchildren, Timothy, Isabella, Lilyon, Liam, Gryffin, Stephen & Annabelle; her brother-in-law Sam Felice; & many special nieces, nephews, & cousins.

Our family thanks the entire staff of the Hamlet at Unity for providing care, friendship and comfort during her six years there. In addition, we thank the staff of Villages West at Unity and to the amazing caregivers of Griswold Home Care who cared for her with respect during hospice. Her many visitors over her last days brought great joy. And to everyone - your support has meant the world to us.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 10, from 1-4 PM at the Eastside Newcomer Funeral Home, 6 Empire Blvd, Rochester, NY 14609. A mass will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 9:30 AM at St. John the Evangelist Church, 2400 W Ridge Rd., Rochester, NY 14626.

In lieu of flowers, Mom requested that donations be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Willow Domestic Violence Center of Greater Rochester.