Carmela Dorefice, 97, a resident of Hollidaysburg Veterans Home, passed away Wednesday

She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Antonio and Teresa (Lepore) Petta. She married Peter J. Dorefice, who preceded her in death on Aug. 5, 1944, while fighting in France during WWII.

Surviving are a niece, Jo Ann York; and many other nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a half-brother, Nick Cecere; and a half-sister, Virginia DeMoore.

Carmela was a member of St. Mark's Catholic Church, Altoona. She enjoyed reading and traveling with her caregiver, Andy Gray.

Friends will be received from noon until the 1 p.m. funeral service, Friday, July 7, 2017, at Santella Funeral Home, Altoona, the Rev. Ron Osinski officiating. Committal will be at Calvary Cemetery, Altoona.