Antoniette Zurlo

Antoniette Zurlo, lovingly known as Toni to her friends and family, passed away peacefully at her home on December 7, 2023, surrounded by her beloved husband of 50 years, John Zurlo, her son Dominic Zurlo, and her daughter Gina Zurlo Diem. Her passing came after years of enduring various painful illnesses, which she fought bravely. She was a remarkable woman who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Antoniette was born on November 6, 1953, in Italy to Josephine and Vito Migliaccio. She spent her formative years at St. Phillips and James Catholic School where she made lifelong friendships. One of these special bonds was with her dearest friend Lois Williams, with whom she shared a mutual love for Tasty Cakes. Mom often fondly reminisced about their adventures in pooling together resources to purchase these delicious treats. She completed her high school education at Seton High School.

Mom held an unwavering devotion to her family. The happiness of her husband, children, and grandpups, Lola and Lenny, was the source of great joy for her. When they were happy, she was happy; when they hurt, she hurt too. She had a whimsical side and enjoyed scrapbooking to create lifelong keepsakes for her children, even though it made her want to pull her hair out sometimes. Notes and prayer cards were often discovered in unexpected places even after her passing, leaving a lasting reminder of her thoughtfulness and love.

Laughter filled her life, which she shared with her daughter during their cherished sleepovers. It was during these times that they would indulge in watching Flea Market Flip, snacking on Cheese Curls, and poking fun at John’s black and white Westerns. A highlight of our mom’s day was always the daily visits and calls from Dominic, where she relished hearing all about his adventures.

Antoniette was a philanthropic soul who dedicated her time and resources to various causes discreetly. She never sought recognition but instead did what she believed was right from the depths of her heart, imparting these values onto her children. Her character was defined by compassion, care, and selflessness. Intelligent and well-read, she had an insatiable curiosity for knowledge. While gentle and nurturing by nature, she was a feisty Italian woman who could scare the life out of you with a mere look or a bite of the bottom lip.

In addition to being a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, Antoniette had a range of hobbies and interests that brought immense happiness into her life. She had an affinity for writing little notes to her loved ones for every occasion, always adorned with stickers and dates. Whether it was wrapping presents with excessive amounts of Scotch tape or ensuring treats were available for their grandpups during visits, mom’s attention to detail knew no bounds. Prior to her declining health, she relished one-on-one time with Dominic during trips to Atlantic City where they would create cherished memories. Early mornings often found her eagerly claiming an embarrassing amount of real estate poolside for their day of relaxation. She savored McDonald's Big Breakfast delivered by her loving husband each morning, much to the delight of her daughter, who would lovingly make light-hearted jokes about her floppy sausage patty, which resulted in belly laughs.

Antoniette's proudest and most cherished accomplishment was being a mother. She was an exceptional best friend and confidant to her children, imparting in them the importance of hard work and resilience. She instilled in them to not dwell on anything, as this, too, shall pass, encouraging them to persevere through challenges. Her love for her husband and children was unwavering until her final breath.

In addition to her beloved husband John, Antoniette is survived by her son Dominic Zurlo, daughter Gina Zurlo Diem, son-in-law David Diem, brothers Frank Migliaccio, Vito Migliaccio and Tony Migliaccio, and loving sister Mary Klapaska. “Nana” is also survived by niece and godchild Danielle Zaicko, nephew Justin Klapaska, nephew Giovanni Migliaccio, niece Annabella Migliaccio, nephew Luciano Migliaccio, great-nephew Cameron Zaicko and step-grandson Nicholas Diem. Lola and Lenny Diem, her adored grandpups, held a special place in her heart.   Antoniette was preceded in death by her father Vito Migliaccio, her mother Josephine Migliaccio, friends Lois Williams and Kathy Luczak and brother-in-law David Klapaska.

Mom was a woman of God deeply rooted in faith. Throughout her home, you would find mass cards, angels, and rosaries. When faced with a loss or challenging times, she always looked to God to see her through. Her mother, Josephine's rosary hung from her bed, where she took her final breath.

Our mother has left behind a legacy built on love, compassion, and unwavering dedication to family. In the hearts of those who knew her best, she will forever be remembered as an extraordinary woman whose strength and kindness touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

As we bid farewell to our sweet mother in this world, let us celebrate the beautiful life she led—a life adorned with love, laughter, generosity, and unwavering devotion. May she find eternal peace in the embrace of our loving Creator.

A memorial gathering will take place on January 4, 2023, at Kaczorowski Funeral Home, P.A. from 6 p.m. tp 8 p.m.  A prayer service will be conducted at 7PM.