Viola DeFazio Cherico

Viola DeFazio Cherico passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at her cherished home. Her daughter, Beverly and son, Christopher, were faithfully by her side. She was also surrounded by her loyal family dogs and cats who brought her daily joy. 

Viola was born in Erie on March 30, 1925, a daughter of the late Santo and Theresa (Chiodo) DeFazio and resided on Huron Street. 

Viola graduated from Strong Vincent High School and worked at Continental Rubber alongside Tony Cherico, Sr., who introduced her to his son, Sgt. Joseph N. Cherico, who had just returned home from combat in WWII. Viola and Joe married in 1947 at St. Paul’s (in the heart of Little Italy). Viola then worked at Erie Resistor, Trask and, lastly but foremost, at J.C. Penney where she formed many lasting friendships. She was the consummate salesgirl who truly enjoyed her position behind the jewelry counter. Her welcoming charm, style and natural beauty outshined the gems she sold. Her family and friends were foremost in her life. She was always lovingly and selflessly providing care and support wherever and whenever needed. She enjoyed many trips from St. Louis to SoCalif to visit her children. Viola and Joe loved their day trips (usually with sister, Jennie and Ed) searching for every little antique shop and lunching at the hole in the wall diners all over the tri-state area. It truly was the simple things that filled her days with happiness. 

In addition to her parents, Viola is preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Joseph N. Cherico in 2011; siblings, Sam (Pauline), John, Tony (Hazel), Jim (Yolanda), Art (Flora) and Richard DeFazio, Mary Felice (Frank), Josephine Licata, Jennie (Ed) Wroblewski; dear nephews, Elmer Donato and Butch DeFazio, beloved niece, Judy DeFazio; great nephew, Trevor Donato and former son-in-law, Obie Obuszewski. 

She is survived by her children, Beverly (Bill Wehrle) and Christopher along with sister-in-law, Faye DeFazio and many dear nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends, all who will miss her and cherish her memory.

We thank Dr. Tursi, Dr. Carter and the faithful VNA hospice team: Laura, Leslie, Alyssa, Tracy, Sandy and Ruth. 

Friends may call at Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Inc. Downtown, 602 W 10th Street on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 3:00 P.M. until 5:30 P.M. and are invited to attend a 1:00 P.M. Funeral Mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 1617 Walnut Street, on Saturday. Burial will be at the convenience of the family at a later date.

Fly high our little Angel Violetta!!! We were/are so lucky. 

Send condolences at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com