Luigia 'Gina' Bianchi

SCHENECTADY – It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother Luigia ‘Gina’ (Panetta) Bianchi (87) who entered peacefully into heaven on July 9, 2021, surrounded by her family and friends.

Born in Fontechiari, Province of Frosinone, Italy on June 21, 1934 to the late Andrea and Teresa Panetta. She was the third of seven children. At the age of 24, Gina married Virginio ‘Gene’ Bianchi on July 19,1958. She courageously embarked alone on a transatlantic voyage to the United States while her husband completed his United States Army tour of duty in Germany. After Gina arrived in New York City, she joined her husband’s family in Schenectady. She knew neither the language nor customs of this nation. Despite the obstacles she encountered, Gina embraced her new life and family, taking English classes, driving lessons, and proudly becoming a US Citizen. Gina glowed with her beauty and elegance. Exceedingly creative and fashionable, she designed and crafted much of her own clothing, as well as endless garments for family and friends. Gina worked as a master seamstress for Ursula of Switzerland in the production facility in Schenectady and later traveled daily to Waterford when the production moved there. After many faithful years, Gina put down her needle and thread and began working for the NYS Office of General Services. She retired in 1996 and was able to spend more time with her beloved grandchildren, Luke and Julia.

Undoubtedly her happiest place was in her kitchen, where she spent countless hours preparing wonderful meals for her family and friends. Gina’s kitchen was filled with the aroma of fresh baked bread, cookies, pizza from the brick oven, homegrown vegetables, and tomato sauce for her homemade pasta. Of course, no meal would be complete without her homemade wine. Gina always had a friendly smile and warm embrace for everyone she encountered. She found time to be a caregiver to others, generously sharing her time, talents, her delicious food, and her abundant love with everyone in need.

Gina had a strong devotion and faith in God and the church. Gina would be found at Mass every weekend and on holidays. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Schenectady, NY for over fifty years.

Gina leaves behind to cherish her memory, her son Dr. Gino Bianchi (Katherine Detrick); her daughter Mariateresa Bianchi Esq.; her grandchildren Luke and Julia Nagle; her sister Antonietta (Alberto) Martino; her sisters-in-law Marianne Panetta and Lucia Bianchi; her brother-in-law Dante (Vivian) Bianchi; and numerous cherished nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her beloved husband Virginio ‘Gene’ Bianchi and her dear brothers Paolo (Anna) Panetta, Dante (Giovanna) Panetta, Domenico Panetta, Franco Panetta, her sister Maria (Pierino Antonio) Palleschi, and her nephew Andrew Panetta.

The family would like to thank all of the staff and volunteers at the Kingsway Nursing Home for providing Gina with compassionate, excellent care during her stay.

May Gina rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord, surrounded by the loving souls who predeceased her.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, corner of Princetown Road and Ford Avenue on Saturday July 17, 2021 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 AM. Entombment will follow the Mass in the family Mausoleum in St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Glenville.