Obituary: Jean Grace Rascati (Porto Funeral Homes)

Jean Grace Rascati passed away at the age of 99 on May 7, 2026 in Syracuse, NY. She was born Jean Grace Esposito one of 11 children to Joseph and Rosa Esposito in New Haven, Connecticut. She was the last surviving member of her siblings.

Her first husband, Frank Szmalc, died 16 months after the birth of their only son Frank. Twelve years later, she married Michael Rascati forming a blended family with Mike and his three sons Michael, Jim, and Ed. Tragically, 4 years later her husband Mike died from cancer and she continued to raise her blended family to adulthood and beyond.

To say that Jean had a difficult and challenging life would be an understatement. Yet her strength, dignity, wisdom and faith helped her get through the rough patches she experienced as a two-time widow. She was proud of all her boys and the men they became. She was especially proud of her son, Frank Szmalc, who became an accomplished physician. She was greatly loved by all her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Her Grandchildren - Gabriella & Mark, Michael & Francesca, Erica & Lauren and Nate & Ben, just all adored her. Jean also leaves behind three beautiful great granddaughters, Nova, Juliana, and Sloane.

She worked for the AC Gilbert company in quality control in the microscope department. After Frank was born, she worked for the school lunch program, eventually becoming the head baker. After remarrying, Jean worked in Mike’s butcher shop until they were forced to sell due to medical bills. She then worked for Circuitwise becoming their lead printed circuit board inspector/trainer.

A voracious reader, she consumed 1 or more books a week for most of her life. She was also a champion scrabble player who was nearly unbeatable. Jean clearly enjoyed words, but it is difficult to find adequate words to describe what an amazing and loving person she was.

She was known to her family for her great cooking and baking skills. Dinner at Nonni’s house was an occasion all anticipated greatly. She made the best pasta sauce, and her desserts were wonderful, especially anginettes and friselles. As an Italian, she was always concerned that everyone had enough to eat, and all dinner guests always left very well fed and cared for.

Jean was a powerful and loving force who was beautiful both in appearance and in her heart. She was a blessing to everyone who knew her and her passing leaves a huge void in all our lives.

She is survived by sons Frank Szmalc (Linda), Michael Rascati (Grace), James Rascati (Peggy), and Ed Rascati (Chris) and many grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Her funeral procession will leave the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte. 80), East Haven MONDAY morning, June 22, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish in Our Lady of Pompeii Church at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will follow in St. Lawrence Cemetery. Family and friends may call MONDAY morning from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Reading Is Fundamental at rif.org. Sign Jean's guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.