Rose Marie Carrano

Rose M. Carrano, 90, of West Haven, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, fittingly leaving this world on the feast day of her favorite saint, Saint Anthony. Born in New Haven on November 22, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Pietrina (Latini) Reale. Survived by her loving daughter, Karen Carrano-Orlando; beloved grandson, Jonathan Orlando; dear sister, Judy Attianese; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Angelina DeLucca, and her former spouse, Alfonso Carrano, who remained an important part of her life throughout the years.

Rose graduated from Hillhouse High School in 1953. It was during that time that she met her husband and began raising her family. For many years, she was a familiar and welcoming presence in the local community through her work as a banquet waitress. She brought her warmth, grace, and strong work ethic to Al & Sal’s Parkwood in East Haven, Gennaro’s Restaurant, and later, Portofino Restaurant. Through her career, she helped celebrate countless milestones for local families, serving each guest with the same care and kindness she showed her own loved ones. It seemed that everyone who dined in these establishments asked for Rose.

Rose spent her life bringing color, energy, and unmatched style to everyone around her. She was a kind, generous, and selfless woman who always put others before herself. To know Rose was to know someone who embraced life with vibrant flair. She surrounded herself with beauty wherever she went.

For 46 wonderful years, Rose was a proud member of the West Walk community. She took great pride in her meticulously groomed yard, filled with beautiful flowers that often drew admiration from neighbors and passersby. She found immense joy in gardening, taking walks outdoors, and caring for the squirrels, birds, and other animals she faithfully fed.

Rose was famous for dressing to the nines. She took tremendous pride in her appearance, carefully coordinating every detail of her outfits—from her stylish hats to her perfectly chosen shoes. Her joyful spirit shone brightest during the holidays, when she delighted in decorating for family, friends, and neighbors and finding the perfect gifts for those she loved. She also had a passion for 1970s disco music and never missed an opportunity to hit the dance floor. Classy, sassy, and ravishing, Rose was truly one in a million. With a style all her own, she could light up any room she entered. She was unforgettable, full of life, and if she loved you, you knew it.

Rose leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and beautiful memories. Her presence, laughter, and radiant spirit will be profoundly missed by her family and by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Infant Church in Orange. Family and friends are asked to meet directly at the church. Entombment will immediately follow in the mausoleum at All Saints Cemetery in North Haven.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rose’s memory to the ASPCA.  To share an online message for Rose's family, please visit our website, www.westhavenfuneral.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rose Marie Carrano, please visit our floral store.