Obituary of Denise J. Melato

Denise Melato (74), of New York City, NY and Wilton, CT, passed away unexpectedly on January 13^th at her home in Manhattan. She was the cherished daughter of the late Lydia Palermo Melato and Ralph Joseph Melato, beloved sister of Barbara Cerrone, Richard Melato and Leslie Andresen, and devoted Aunt of Christopher Cerrone (Carrie Sun), Emily Andresen and Paul Andresen.

Born in Brooklyn, Denise grew up on Long Island, attending Sacred Heart Academy, followed by Finch College and Adelphi University, earning a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree.  She went on to become a paralegal, working first at Manufacturer’s Hanover Trust and ultimately rising to the position of Vice President of Client Relations for Chase Mellon.  She was highly regarded not only for her business acumen, but for the personal care she showed for each of the client accounts she cultivated.

At her core, Denise was an artist.  Her passion for it in all forms - theater, music, painting, porcelain, vintage films, fine jewelry – was evident in all aspects of her life, down to her beautifully furnished homes, Christopher Radko decorated Christmas tree, and impressive wine cellar.  Nothing gave her more pleasure than enjoying and sharing those things with the ones she loved – especially her niece and nephews, who were treated to ‘Aunt Denise’ experiences in New York City, Kennebunkport and Paris.   She will be missed beyond words, and remembered by all for her generosity, beauty, keen mind and sensitive, kind nature.

Arrangements are under the care of M.A. Connell Funeral Home, Huntington Station, NY, with a wake on Friday, January 26^th from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.  A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 27^th at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Elizabeth’s RC Church, Melville, NY, followed by burial at Saint Charles Cemetery, Farmingdale, NY.  In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a donation in Denise’s name to New York Foundation for the Arts, https://www.nyfa.org/.