Carmella Dungey Peiffer

May 17, 2014

Carmella Malfitano Dungey Peiffer, 94, devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, died at home surrounded by her loving family just as she wished.  She was born in Collamer, NY to Anthony and Mary (Barone) Malfitano.   In 1940 she married Thomas F. Dungey, Jr., a marriage lasting 43 years.  She remarried in 1997 to Robert V. Peiffer with whom she enjoyed 12 happy years.
She was predeceased by Thomas in 1984, Robert in 2009, her grandson Kevin J. Reistrom in 2010, her brothers Dr. Anthony, Frank, Sonny Malfitano and sisters Rose Fauvelle and Josephine LaFave.
Surviving are her children: Thomas A. Dungey of Houston, TX; Mary Ellen Dungey Reistrom (Carl),  Elizabeth Dungey Puffer (former CNY SPCA cruelty investigator) Syracuse; and James R. Dungey (Patricia) of Cazenovia.  Grandchildren: Catherine Reistrom Smith (Adam), Carl T. Reistrom (Lia), Mark Dungey, Collyn Dungey and Kevin’s wife, Jamie Reistrom. Great-grandchildren Corissa, Shaina and Aaron Smith, Celia and Luke Reistrom and Isa Dungey.  Brother Sam Malfitano (Fran), sister in law Beatrice Malfitano, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Millie (Carme) was devoted to Mary, the Blessed Mother of God.  She believed in the power of the rosary.
Carmella will be remembered as a “lovely and vibrant person, a true friend, kind beyond belief”. She endeared herself to people of all ages.  “Millie” cherished her many friends especially the bridge buddies with whom she enjoyed 50 plus years of friendship.  
A true “people person”, with an unmatchable work ethic, her experiences included work as a self employed beautician, sales associate at Chappell’s, later BonTon, and co-owner and operator with Tom of her own business. She juggled the demanding responsibilities of a home and family, her summer camp on Oneida Lake and Millie and Tom’s Ramble Inn.  
Carmella’s creativity manifested itself in her decorating, her gardens, painting, sewing and knitting. She appreciated nature especially sunsets, flowers and birds.  ‘Perle Mesta’ to her friends, Carmella was admired for her cooking, entertaining and hospitality.  She was often the first person to arrive at the home of the sick or bereaved with complete meals.   She volunteered her manicure services to patients at Community Hospital, and helped in her children’s schools and church.
Carmella was a past member of many organizations:  The Corinthian Club, The Arion Stein Club, Plymouth Garden Club, Cavalry Club, Pompey Club, Sedgwick Rosary, Blessed Sacrament Players Guild, Liedercranz Chorus, golf and bowling leagues.  
Carmella exemplified a mother’s unconditional love. You deserve to rest in peace Mom.  Your new life has begun.
Thank you to the many doctors and nurses who were compassionate and caring to Carmella during the last four years.
Services 9:45 AM at Gang Memorial Chapel 10:30 AM in Blessed Sacrament Church. Entombment in Assumption Mausoleum. Calling hours are Tuesday 4-8 PM at the funeral home 104 Fordham Rd. at Teall Ave.                                                                                                                                                                                                      
Donations would be gratefully accepted to: CNY SPCA  5878 E. Molloy Rd. Syracuse, NY 13211, St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation  973 James Street, Suite Syracuse, NY 13203, Hospice of Central NY, 990 Seventh North St. Liverpool, NY 13088