John Vertone

John Vertone CLAREMONT — While the family is saddened by the peaceful passing of John Vertone, of Claremont, New Hampshire, on Sept. 30, 2021, we take comfort in knowing that he has reached his heavenly home. John was born on July 4, 1928, in Pietragalla, Italy, to Donato and Maria Vertone. He learned the tailoring trade at his father’s knee. He furthered his education and training in Potenza, Italy, to fulfill his dream of becoming a tailor. At age 22, John emigrated to Canada with several friends. While in Canada, he lived in various locations and worked in several trades, including farming, construction and fur-coat making. His goal of coming to the United States was realized in 1955, when he was sponsored by a second cousin who happened to live in Claremont, New Hampshire. After moving to this city that he would call home for the next 65 years, he worked tirelessly to learn the language and build a career, forging many lifelong friendships along the way. John opened his own shop in September 1958, becoming a proud and successful business owner, specializing in custom tailoring and dressmaking, until his retirement 44 years later. Among his proudest moments was becoming an American citizen on Sept. 7, 1960. In the fall of 1960, he met, courted, and then married Deanna (née Lambert) on July 4, 1962. Deanna faithfully worked behind the scenes to support her husband’s long hours in the tailor shop. While their marriage was something they both treasured right from the start, welcoming their son, Michael, into their home and hearts fulfilled their long-awaited desire to become parents. John appreciated and treasured his family and friends. He found a home at St. Joseph’s Church and in the Knights of Columbus, where he was a 3rd- and 4th-degree Knight. In his early years, John enjoyed bowling, square dancing, gardening and golfing. While his commitment to square dancing, bowling and gardening waned over time, he remained a lifelong golfer, last on the links at age 92. He also enjoyed traveling with Deanna, dear friends and family. One of his long-standing desires later in life was to return to Italy to reunite with his sister. That dream was doubly-realized in 2008 and 2017. John loved music, especially Neapolitan. A highlight of many summers was frequenting band concerts with family and friends. The Westmoreland Town Band was among his favorites. He was an avid Red Sox fan and loved a good soccer match, especially when his team, Napoli, was playing. Supper could even be delayed on such occasions! John is survived by son, Michael (April) Vertone; nephews, Jay (Carol) Cheney and Carmelo (Sara) Cupelli; nieces, Jill (Rodney) Stubbs, Susan (Bruce) Lyman and Lisa Cheney; as well as two additional generations of nieces/nephews in the States. In addition, he is survived by family members in New Jersey, Canada and Italy. John was predeceased by his parents; his beloved wife; his sisters, Carmela and Lucia; in-laws, Alfred and Ruth Lambert; and brother- and sister-in-law, Joseph and Jean Cheney. The family will receive visitors at Stringer Funeral Home, 146 Broad St., Claremont, on Thursday, Oct. 7, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 165 Elm St., Claremont. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Plains Road, Claremont. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to a charity of the donor’s choice.