Rose M. Damiata, 94, of Middletown, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, in Hartford. Born on September 20, 1931, she was the daughter of Josephine (Milardo) and Mario Damiata and a graduate of Middletown High School.
Rose began her career as a bank teller at Connecticut Bank & Trust and progressed to Assistant Vice President and branch manager, proudly opening the bank's Wesleyan University branch. A trailblazer for women in banking, she was respected for her leadership and dedication. After retiring, she continued working at the Elks Lodge and Heritage Commons, where she built many friendships.
Rose approached life with optimism and curiosity. She loved skiing, playing cards, traveling, shopping, and time with family and friends. A consummate fashionista, she enjoyed outfits that reflected her vibrant personality. She was equally delighted by simple pleasures, especially a bowl of perciatelli with crab sauce. She volunteered for many years with the Salvation Army as a bell ringer and board member.
She is survived by her nieces and nephews: Edward (Kathleen) Damiata, Cheryl McChesney, Dennis (Kathy) Kelly, Donna (Tom) Mitkoski, Frances (Kenneth) Crescimanno, Mario (Janet) Damiata, Nancy (Marc) Snyder, Nancy Kelly, Patrick Kelly, and Sharon (Rick) Freed. She was predeceased by siblings: Frank, Nicholas, Sebastian, Ann, and nephew Michael Kelly.
A graveside service will be held Saturday, November 22, at 11:00 a.m., at Calvary Cemetery, 305 Bow Lane, Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org) or a charity of your choice. To post condolences, visit dangelofuneralhome.com.
Rose lived a joyful, generous life defined by kindness, resilience, and love. Her boundless positivity and zest for life lifted everyone around her, and she always left people feeling better after a conversation. Young at heart and full of energy, she leaves a legacy of warmth and compassion; may her memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth her legacy of love and compassion in all that we do.