In 1926, the Sicilian community in Hammond was saddened when an immigrant child died from diptheria. At the time, there were no provisions for her burial in the city cemetery and this created a problem for the Sicilian community.
A meeting of families was held and after much discussion, they agreed to create the Italian Cemetery Association, purchase land, and establish a cemetery to serve the needs of the immigrants and local community.
Our cemetery now operates as Rose Memorial Park Cemetery in remembrance of “Rose” the immigrant whose death prompted the formation of our cemetery.
OFFICERS
- Mr. Salvador Faldetta, President
- Mr. Robert Alfonso, Vice President
- Mrs. Nadine Legarde, Secretary
Mr. Johnnie Alfonso, General Manager Mrs. Phyllis Brooks, Sales
BOARD of DIRECTORS
Mr. Robert Alfonso Mr. Frankie Cali Mr. Paul Collura
Mr. Daryl Ferrara Mr. Joseph Fiduccia Mr. Philip Giannobile
Mr. Vincent Giannobile Mr. Hayden Puma Mr. Jessie Legarde
Mr. Brandon Recotta Mr. Ronnie Schillace, Emeritus
Mr. Charles Varisco Mr. Michael Varisco
HONORARY MEMBERS – Mr. Richard Burton
FORMER PRESIDENTS
We are eternally grateful for the following men who have served our association:
Mr. Vito Graziano 1927 – 1935
Mr. Vito Giannobile 1946 – 1951
Mr. Joseph Varisco 1956 – 1985
Mr. Anthony Mele 1985 – 1988
Mr. Guy Recotta 2010 – 2015
