Carmella Surdi

Carmella Surdi passed away peacefully in Bellingham, WA on March 27, 2016. She moved to Bellingham in 2002 to be closer to her children. She was a proud first generation Italian-American born in Newark, NJ on April 30, 1923.

Daughter to Angelo Farruggia and Margherita Carfi, who immigrated to America in search of a better life for their family. She married Benjamin Surdi on January 26, 1947. They raised four children, son Leonard Surdi and daughters Annette Querques, Debra Paul and Camille Surdi. The Great Depression and WWII were instrumental in Carmella’s strong love of country and her life compass. Family was the driving force in Carmella’s life and she instilled good morals and values in her children and grandchildren. She was an active member of UNICO, a national Italian-American organization, serving as local president for a time. Carmella was an avid bowler and had great joy in watching sports, especially her beloved Yankees. Highlights included meeting both Eleanor Roosevelt and Joe Montana.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, husband Benjamin Surdi, in 1997 and her son-in-law, Scott Paul in 1993. Carmella is survived by her children Len Surdi of Bellingham, WA, Annette (husband Frank) Querques of San Marcos, CA, Debra Paul of Bellingham, WA, and Camille Surdi (wife Terra Chapman) of St. Petersburg, FL, six grandchildren, Laurie (husband Doug) Rulison, Christine (husband Jeff) Cudmore, Jennifer Querques, Shannon Paul, Cassidy Paul and Jonathan Chapman, three great-grandchildren, Sydney and Sienna Rulison and Emily Cudmore. Carmella attributed her long life to her positive attitude and strong faith. Funeral Mass and Burial will be held in New Jersey.

Memorials may be made to Whatcom Hospice House, 2901 Squalicum Parkway, Bellingham, WA 98225 or the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org .