Obituary
Guest Book
1923
2014
HENRY "ENRICO" ALTADONNA
SEPT 1, 1923 – APR 13, 2014
Henry Altadonna, 90, of Modesto, went to his final resting place on Sunday, April 13, 2014 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Brooklyn, New York to Cirillo and Vincenza Altadonna. At the age of seven, Enrico moved to Carini, Sicily, where he spent the next seven memorable years. He returned to New York at the age of fourteen traveling with a family friend on the ship Vulcania. His father enrolled him in high school where he thrived and learned the English language.
Eventually, Henry worked for American Airlines and during a California vacation met Maria, the love of his life. He enlisted in the army during which they corresponded daily. After his discharge, they were married on July 7, 1947 in Modesto and then moved to New York for eight years. Henry decided to attend cosmetology school which became his lifelong career. The family moved to Modesto in 1955. In 1963, Henry opened a beauty shop "Enrico's Coiffures" with partner Helen Lazar.
After 40 years, he retired to enjoy spending time with his family and especially being "Nonno" to his grandsons. Henry believed that love and family were the essence of life. He was passionate about enjoying life to the fullest and evident in the pride he took in his fruit and vegetable garden, cooking quality meals and baking his famous bread. Music was also an integral part of his life whether listening to it or dancing with his Mary. Also known for his sense of humor, Henry was always ready to make people smile and feel welcome.
Henry is survived by his children Vivian (Robert) Jones of Oakdale, Henry A. (Sharrie) Altadonna of Modesto, grandsons Jeffrey Jones, Gregory (Katie) Jones, great grandson Jake Henry Jones, and siblings Louis (Emilia) Altadonna and Amelia Cutietta. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary, his parents and six siblings.
Visitation will be from 4-8pm on Wednesday, April 23rd, at Lakewood Funeral Home in Hughson, with a Rosary at 6pm. A Mass will be at 10am on Thursday, April 24th, at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Modesto, with a burial to follow at Lakewood Memorial Park.
Remembrances may be made to Community Hospice or charity of choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
April 26, 2014
V B
I am so sorry for your loss. May the God of peace bring you comfort during this very difficult time. (Rom. 15:33)
April 24, 2014
Pam Milam
Dear Family . I'm so very sorry . Henry gave me my first job at Enricos .He always called me his baby . And always loved his girls .To me he was a great man ! I'm very sad but know his with your mom dancing . With sympathy Pam cooper Milam
April 24, 2014
Dear Vivian and Louis and Family,
Henry was the soul of life and happiness. I know your memories are rich. Although you will miss him, he's sure to be near you with a joke and a hug. All our good thoughts are with you. Marsha, Richard, Caitlin & Claire Thrift
April 23, 2014
Renee D'Accardo
My condolences to the Altadonna family.
April 23, 2014
giuseppe perazzetti
ciao Enrico Dio ti Benedica
April 23, 2014
Lori Pasco
Dear Henry Jr, and Vivian,
I cared very much about Henry Sr, and so enjoyed all of the lively conversations we had across the top of the fence. He told me that as soon as he get well he was going to get a little dog just like cookie so he could play all day with her as I do.
Knowing your family has made living in a new town feel just like home. Seeing the devotion, time, shared meals, and loving attention so freely given every day by the members of your family to your dad, shows me what a loving home he and Mary created for you to grow in. If my children are 1/2 as attentive in my golden years as the Altadonna children are, then I will have done my job as a parent.
I will miss my dear friend and neighbor. I do love SR and will think of him every day of my life.
With love and true sympathy, Lori Pasco and family
April 22, 2014
Linda Ridenour
Miss my dear uncle who was such a prescence in my life.
April 22, 2014
Becky Aggers Souza
Vivian and family, I was one of Henry's many customers for several years and always enjoyed our visits during my hair appointments. He was a fine man. The obit reflects the man I knew and respected. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
April 22, 2014
Lakewood Funeral Home
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more