Obituary of Olga Diane Cannalonga

Cannalonga, Olga, Diane nee: Giovanelli, age 100, of Fort Lee, on Saturday February 4, 2023. Beloved wife to the late Marco Cannalonga.  Loving mother to Dona Fischer and the late Benjamin Fischer.  Cherished grandmother to Lisa Peters-Russ and her husband Hank. 

Olga was born in New York in 1922 to Italian-American Actress Marietta Maiori and distinguished Violinist Professor Atillio Giovanelli.  Olga, predeceased by her siblings Adele Rosato and Arthur Giovanelli grew up in a home filled with love, music and theater.   Olga married Marco Cannalonga, a brilliant chemist in 1947 and in 1964 settled in Fort Lee where Olga remained until her passing. 

Olga’s hobbies included cooking, crochet and the art of French Beaded Flowers.   She dedicated her life to her family, her daughter Dona and granddaughter Lisa.  She was venturesome, fun and very strong-willed.  She and her bestie Karin Lanza held high hopes that one day they would pick THE 6 lucky winning numbers and their dedication to this mission boundless.

One of Olga’s most memorable moments happened in 2021 when she was asked to participate in the film Tutti in Scena, a documentary on the history of Italian Theater in NYC at the end of 1800 and beginning of 1900’s.  In this film Olga recounts the memories of her family, especially of her grandfather Italian actor and co-founder of the Italian Actors Union Atonio Maiori.   Her memories, a first-hand account of the past is a precious gift that only someone who has lived over 100 years can offer us.  We will always be thankful for her and she will remain forever in our hearts

All are asked to assemble on Tuesday, February 7th at the Madonna Mausoleum for a 1:30 PM prayer service. For condolences, directions, or information visit www.frankpatti.com or call (201) 944-0100. Personal updates from the family are available by visiting www.caringbridge.org/visit/olgacannalong