Grace A. Castronovo, 86; Lifelong Greenwich Resident, Worked for Local Publishers

Grace Adelle Castronovo, a lifelong Greenwich resident, died Jan. 23, 2014 at Stamford Hospital. She was 86.

Born June 1, 1927 in Greenwich, she was a daughter of the late John and Lillian Clement Castronovo.

She attended Greenwich Public Schools and graduated from Greenwich High School in 1945. Grace began her career at Conde Nast Publications in Old Greenwich, and upon their relocation she joined Fawcett Publications which later became CBS Publications. She also was a bookkeeper at Rye Shoe Store.

Grace was a natural athlete, playing softball for many local women's teams and also coached several girls' softball teams throughout the Town of Greenwich. She could often be found on the sidelines cheering for her nieces and nephews at local sporting events. Grace was also an avid bowler, and a member of the "300" club.

Grace's devotion to her family originated from her childhood experiences growing up in Greenwich during the Depression and she helped to support her family after the death of her father at an early age. She was adored by her family, and will be greatly missed.

Grace is survived by her sister Eleanor Orrico of Cos Cob; her Aunt, Antoninette DiFilippo of Grass Valley, CA, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her brothers Frank, Ralph, John, Patrick and Michael, and her sister, Mary Saracino.

Family and friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 26 at the Castiglione Funeral Home, 134 Hamilton Ave., Greenwich.  A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 27 at St. Mary Church, 178 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, followed by interment at St. Mary's Cemetery, North Street, Greenwich.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Grace's name can be made to the American Diabetes Association, and the National Kidney Foundation.