Margaret M. Morabito 1928-2017

Margaret was born June 8, 1928, in Niles, the daughter of Mariano and Angeline Macceo Morabito and was a lifelong Niles resident.

“Margie”, as she was lovingly known to her family and friends, was part owner and operator of the family business Morabito’s Robbins Supermarket, the first Italian supermarket. It began as a fruit stand by her sister, Mary Alice Morabito Razzano, and was eventually expanded by her brothers John and Sam in the 1940s. Margie began working in the store at the age of 12 while attending Junior High. She continued working throughout high school and graduated in 1946 with honors from Niles McKinley High School. Margie, alongside her sister Angeline, continued to run the store until they sold the business in 2004. Margie and the supermarket will be remembered as an outstanding part of the Niles community.

In her youth, she enjoyed bowling with her sister Angie, also swimming and boating with her family and friends. Margie also loved playing the piano for her family and at recitals for school. Margie treasured memories of holidays and special occasions with her family, friends and neighbors and always enjoyed a good conversation. She was an avid reader, especially about current events and local news. A proud fan of the Cleveland Browns and the Ohio State Buckeyes football, she regularly watched their games on television. She also enjoyed golf.

Throughout her life, she traveled to many states in the U.S.A. Her most exciting time in her travels was returning to her mother and father’s home in Italy. In her travels to Milan and Sicily and other parts of Europe, she met her nine first cousins for the first time.

Margie was very strong in her faith. A long time member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Niles, she prayed the rosary daily and remained devout to our Lord until her final breath.

Margie was extremely close to her sister, Angeline. After retirement they bought a horse together, went on vacations and enjoyed time with family and friends. One of Margie’s fondest memories was the surprise 80th birthday party given by Angie. Margie was overjoyed to be surrounded by those who loved her. Angie was a loyal and loving sister and caregiver and Margie was ever so grateful.

Margie was also blessed with her niece, Mary Elizabeth Razzano, who became her main caregiver later in life. Mary catered to every want and need, keeping Margie and Angie happy and safe in their own home.

She will be greatly missed by her nieces, Mary Elizabeth Razzano of Niles and Margaret Ann (Don) Cintavey of Rehoboth Beach, Del.; three nephews, John (Marsha) Morabito of Girard, Andrew (Carrie) Razzano of Niles and Frank Razzano of Cleveland. She also will be missed by nine great-nieces and great-nephews; and seven great-great nieces and nephews.

Margie was preceded in death by her loving parents; four brothers, baby John, John, Sam and Sebastian “Buster” Morabito; and her sisters, Mary Alice Razzano and Angeline Morabito.

Friends may call 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Joseph Rossi & Sons Funeral Home in Niles. A Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Friday at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Niles preceded by a 10:30 a.m. prayer service at the funeral home. Burial will be in Niles City Cemetery.

Family and friends may send email condolences and light a candle by visiting www.josephrossifuneral-home.com.

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