Obituary of Roberta S. Sportello

FRANKFORT – Mrs. Roberta S. Sportello, age 96, passed away peacefully, in her sleep, on Tuesday morning, February 4, 2020, at the Foltsbrook Center, in Herkimer, where she had received excellent care these last few months. Born on March 5, 1923, in Lyons Falls, NY, Roberta was the daughter of the late Harry and Carrie (Cornell) Smith. She was raised and educated in Lyons Falls and graduated from high school in 1941. On October 31, 1942, Roberta was wed to Mr. Louis J. Sportello, Sr. and together they shared in a loving and devoted union of over fifty years until Louis’ passing. For many years, Roberta was employed with the State Street Mill clothing store in Herkimer as a sales clerk. She was a lifetime member and past president of the Frankfort American Legion, a member of the Columbian Society and a longtime parishioner of Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church. Roberta was an avid bingo player and called the numbers for many years at the Legion. She loved to cook and bake for her beloved family and her memory will forever live on in their hearts. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Anthony “Skip” Perritano, of Frankfort; her son, Ernie Sportello, of Tennessee; her numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews and cousins. A special thank you is extended to Mary May for all of her help and to Roberta’s little friend, Gage. Besides her parents, Roberta was predeceased by two sons, Louis Sportello, Jr. and Robert Sportello; and several brothers and sisters. In keeping with Roberta’s wishes, her services will be held privately and at the convenience of her family. Final interment will take place in the spring of 2020, in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Frankfort. Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000, Harry J. & Kevin E. Enea and Martin L. Ciaccia, Funeral Directors.