Clara L. Crugnale, 97, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025 at Northgate Health Care Facility in Wheatfield, NY, under the compassionate care of Niagara Hospice. Born in San Pio delle Camere, Abruzzo, Italy, Clara was the beloved daughter of the late Loretto and Pia (Paolini) DiCenso.
She immigrated to the United States and, alongside her husband, the late Pasquale “Patsy” L. Crugnale, who predeceased her on February 2, 2017, built a life rooted in family, faith, and community. Together, they owned and operated La Hacienda, a cherished Niagara Falls restaurant, for over four decades from the 1940s through the 1980s.
A devout Catholic throughout her life, Clara found joy in the simple pleasures—knitting, cooking, and spending time with her family. She was an avid fan of Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, and her warmth left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Clara is survived by her loving daughters, Lillian Evangelista and Patricia Crugnale; her cherished grandchildren, Donato (Valeri) Evangelista, Dr. Pasquale Evangelista, Michael (Terri) Prokop, and Andrew (Cara) Prokop; and her adored great-grandchildren, Elise, Daniel, and Avery Prokop. She is also survived by her brother, Angelo (late Madelyn) DiCenso, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her husband, Clara was sadly predeceased by her daughter, Maria Pia Zarr, and her siblings, Lorenzo (Luciana) DiCenso and Maria (late Anzelmo) Casilio.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Niagara Hospice at Northgate, and her Catholic Health Home Care Team, Donna W., Denise C., Nevaeh H., and Daniella C., for their exceptional care and compassion.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 15 from 4 – 8 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Clara’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 16 at 10 AM at St. Joseph Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301. Entombment will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to the Niagara County SPCA at www.niagaraspca.org. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Clara L. Crugnale | 10/08/2025 first appeared on Recent Obituaries for M. J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel.
