Marie R. Mangano

Marie R. Mangano, age 93, a resident of Rowntree Gardens in Stanton, CA, passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 21, 2022.

Marie was born on February 10, 1929, in Ambler, Pennsylvania to Carlo and Rosa Silvestri, during the Great Depression. She was the oldest of 7 children and resided with her parents and maternal grandparents growing up. Because the household was so large additional income was needed during those challenging times. Therefore, upon completing the 8th grade she quit school so that she could go to work to help support her family. She took on large responsibilities at an early age. While holding down a full-time job she was also responsible for helping her mother cook, do household chores and take care of her 6 siblings.
In 1950 she met her future husband, Salvatore (aka Sam) Mangano at the Valentine's Day Dance at the Willow Grove Naval Base. She would say that was the happiest time of her life. They shared so much in common, especially with both their parents being natives of Italy. They were married on May 17, 1952. Her wedding day was a beautiful joyful day. It was exactly how she dreamed it would be and more! She said felt like a "Queen for the Day" with the most gorgeous, 8- foot train dress, designed and made by her Aunt Catherine. She remembered every detail of that day until the day of her passing.

On June 10, 1954, Marie became the proud mother of twin daughters, Nancy and Roseann. She was a loving, giving, nurturing, and devoted mother who cared for her daughters unconditionally. She was the maker and keeper of wonderful memories. She was so proud of having twins that she became an active member of the National Mothers of Twins Club.

Growing up Marie always wanted to be an Interior Decorator, Dress Designer or Writer of her own cookbooks. She also dreamed of being a ballet dancer or being able to sing like Shirley Temple. Her hobbies were writing, sewing, crocheting, knitting blankets, coloring, and any form of arts and crafts. Additionally, Marie loved to take long walks, especially along the beach.

In 1957, Sam requested a transfer to Los Alamitos Naval Base in California so that they could be closer to Marie's family. Her family had relocated there previously to be in warmer climate due to health concerns. Then, in 1959 Marie and Sam purchased their first home at 7598 Cody Drive, Stanton, California. They enjoyed living in this lovely home for 60 years.

In 2016 Marie's husband predeceased her by cancer. They had been married for 64 glorious years, celebrating each milestone anniversary with family and friends.

In 2019 Marie moved into Rowntree Gardens Senior Living Facility in Stanton, California. There she was cared for 24/7 by dedicated loving and professional nursing staff who treated her like their own mother. Each day was filled with fun activities that Marie didn't get to enjoy in her childhood. They even enabled video calls with her daughters, who lived out of state, on a regular basis. When asked one day by Roseann, "What would you say to dad if you could talk to him now? " She immediately replied, "Come Back! You're missing all the fun!".

Marie left an indelible imprint on the lives of those she loved and those who loved her. Marie was a devout Catholic who lived a life loving God, dedicated to obeying his laws and teachings. She often said, "we should help and care for each other, be loving and kind, and be thankful for what we have each day". Her life was a true example of following those beliefs. She was such an inspiration to all who came to know her, if even for a short while.


Marie is predeceased by her first-born twin daughter Nancy, who passed away of cancer in June 2020. Marie herself is a cancer survivor. In fact, Marie has always demonstrated unbelievable courage, resiliency and strength throughout her life!

Marie is also predeceased by her brothers and sisters; Michael Silvestri, wife Joan and Ralph Silvestri, sisters; Josephine Malone, Rose Ann Zengri, and Carolyn Stadnisky, husband Richard.

Marie is survived by one of her twin daughters, Roseann Mangano, her 4 granddaughters: Sarah Guidone, Rachel Guidone, Leah (Guidone) Christian and her husband Tyler, and Anna (Guidone) Crawshaw and her husband Jacob. She is the loving great grandmother of Aria Marie De Carlo, Ava and Naomi Christian.
She is also survived by her brother James Silvestri and wife Lita, her son-in law Jim Guidone., her nephews, nieces, cousins and a host of many dear friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to join us in celebrating Marie's life Monday evening, December 19, 2022, for a Visitation between 4pm-8pm at Forest Lawn Mortuary, Hope Chapel, at 4471 Lincoln Ave, Cypress, CA.

The Funeral Service will be conducted Tuesday, December 20, 2022 starting with a Mass at Saint Polycarp Church, 8100 Chapman Ave, Stanton, CA at 10:00 AM. (The funeral procession into the church will form at 9:45AM)

The Internment will take place at approximately 11:30 AM at Forest Lawn Cemetery, immediately following the Mass.

An Italian Luncheon will be served in the Forest Lawn Main building, Cypress Room, following the Internment. All guests are invited.