Obituary: Santina Josephine Laurienzo

Santina J. Laurienzo passed away Feb. 18, 2024, at the Solvay Hospice House in Duluth. Tina was born in Piminoro, Calabria, Italy, the oldest child of Joseph and Mary Grace (Daniele) Barbaro. In 1957, the family left Italy for the United States, where they settled in Hibbing. While working at Modern Shoe Repair in Hibbing, Tina caught the eye of one of the owner's sons, Mickey, who went out of his way to win her affection. They were married two years later in December of 1963, and went on to raise two beautiful sons in Cloquet.

Tina was known by all as the ultimate caregiver, always insisting on sharing her incredible Italian cooking and passion for healthy living with everyone. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she often traveled to the Cities to be part of their important events. Back at home, she and Mickey enjoyed square dancing over the years, happy hour on the deck, and golfing or socializing with their many friends. Tina was a woman of strong faith and an active member and volunteer of Hermantown Community Church. She will be missed by so many!

Santina was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved aunt, Stella Daniele. She is survived by her husband, Michael Laurienzo; sons, Brian (Carolyn) Laurienzo and Scott (Jennifer) Laurienzo; four grandchildren, Alissa, Vinny, Ellie and Talia; two brothers, Domenic (Francesca) Barbaro and Bruno Barbaro; two sisters, Antoinette Anderson, and Stella (John Glynn) Barbaro; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation: 12 p.m. until the 2 p.m. memorial service Friday, March 1 at Hermantown Community Church, 4880 Maple Grove Road in Hermantown. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Arrangements are entrusted to Nelson Funeral Care of Cloquet.

Pine Knot News, Feb. 23, 2024