Orlando “Lonnie” Ferentini of South Salem died at his home on Dec. 17. He was 89.
He was born Dec. 21, 1934, in Anagni, Italy, to the late Giuseppe and Marina (Frattali) Ferentini.
He grew up on his family farm. At age 17, he left Italy and immigrated to the U.S. in 1954, after spending two years in Venezuela where he worked in a variety of jobs. Living in the Bronx, his first job was in a butcher shop where he met his future wife, Maria Santa “Sandy” DiCarlo. They married in 1955 and spent the next 56 years together until her death in 2011.
Ferentini purchased land in South Salem in 1970 and built his dream home there. He became known for his remarkable vegetable garden, which he generously shared with his friends and neighbors. He also enjoyed bow hunting and developed a few culinary talents, particularly his homemade sausage, spiedini, pasta and hamburgers, his family said.
A beloved member of the Lewisboro community, he took his unofficial role as “mayor” of Lower Salem Road seriously and drove around the road often to check in on his neighbors.
In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his eldest son, Joseph. He is survived by a daughter, Catherine, a son, Thomas (Jennifer), and two grandchildren.
The family will receive visitors Monday, Dec. 23, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., at Clark Associates Funeral Home, located at 4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary’s RC Church, located at 55 Valley Road, Katonah, on Monday, Dec. 23 at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Ferncliff Cemetery, located at 280 Secor Road, Hartsdale.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lewisboro Senior Adult program: Pam Veith, Lewisboro Parks and Recreation, 99 Elmwood Road, South Salem, NY 10590.