Stella M. Pingitore

             Stella M. (Bonanno) Pingitore, 98, of Reading, passed away in her home surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, August 16, 2023.  Born in Reading, she was the daughter of the late Rosalie (Piro) and Biagio “Anthony” Bonanno.  She was the loving wife of Ralph J. Pingitore and together they shared 67 years of marriage before his passing on April 7, 2016.  Stella was a member of St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church.  She worked as a sleeve setter for Deaner’s Knitting Mills in Reading.  When Stella was younger, she was a professional tap dancer for Marie Shaw and travelled the East Coast.  She loved to bake and was known for her Italian cookies during Christmas and Easter.  She was a jack of all trades from sewing to home repairs.  Stella was like a second mom to all and loved children, especially her grandchildren.

               Stella is survived by her daughter, Lori J. Matz, wife of Richard of Reading.  Also surviving is her grandson, Daniel J. Matz, her great grandchildren, Isaiah and Grace Matz, and many nieces and nephews who she loved dearly.  In addition to her husband, Ralph, Stella is preceded in death by 6 siblings and her daughter, Rosann Geisinger.

               A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 11:00 am in the Chapel of Resurrection at Gethsemane Cemetery Mausoleum, 3139 Kutztown Road, Reading, PA 19605.  Reverend Brian Miller to celebrate.  The family will receive friends and relatives on Thursday, August 24, 2023 from 9:15 am to 10:15 am in Bean Funeral Homes, 129 E. Lancaster Ave., Shillington, PA 19607.  Entombment will follow the mass.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in honor of Mrs. Stella M. Pingitore to St. Jude’s Children Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 and/or to Mary’s Shelter, 615 Kenhorst Blvd., Reading, PA 19611.  Bean Funeral Homes, Shillington is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com.