Diane Cugini

Diane Robisky Cugini was called to the Lord Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022, after a five-year diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. Born in Mariner’s Harbor to Theodore and Janet Robisky March 30th, 1941, Diane married her high school sweetheart, the late Robert (Bob) Cugini and moved to Castleton Corners where she was a lifelong resident. There they raised their four children, Rob (Lisa), Christine (Craig Wilson), David (Anne) and Greg (Heather). For most of her life, Diane was a wonderful homemaker and an enthusiastic volunteer, first through PTAs and St. Teresa’s Church, then later in life, with the Senior Olympics and the Grandmothers’ Club. When her children were grown, she worked as an administrative assistant at PFN Publishing, Secaucus, NJ and Freedom from Fear, Staten Island, NY.

Known by many names, Mom, Aunt Diane, Mrs. C. and Nana, Diane was a fabulous cook and loved to be surrounded by family and friends at her exceptionally large dining room table where there was always room for one more. Of all her names, her favorite was Nana and took extraordinary pride in her nine grandchildren, RJ (Lydia), Thomas, Caroline, Jacki (Eric), Jake, Emily, Danielle, Anthony, and Mia. Whether it was freezing at early morning hockey games, watching local cooking contests, taking road trips to baseball tournaments and cross country meets, applauding at junior theater musicals, or cheering for swim meets via zoom, Diane loved seeing her grandchildren in action. Diane and Bob loved nothing more than having their family together.

Diane never met a stranger and was always eager to lend a helping hand. Caregiving came naturally to her, and it was never so passionate as when caring for the love of her life, Bob as he spent his last year with us in a Manhattan hospital. Diane spent every day at his bedside, always making sure he had everything he needed and advocating for his care. That compassion continued to extended family and friends and Diane spent much of her retired years visiting those in need of comfort, bringing a tray of her delicious Scottish shortbread that made everyone feel better. She was happy to drive those that no longer could to meetings, doctor appointments or just to grab a bite at the Island Coffee Shop. She always rooted for the underdog and sought to lift up those who fell on challenging times. She will be deeply missed by her family and many friends.

Visitation will take place at Casey Funeral Home, 350 Slosson Ave., Staten Island, Wednesday April 20th 4-8 pm. Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, April 21st 10:45 am at St. Teresa’s RC Church, 1634 Victory Boulevard Staten Island NY 10314. Internment to follow at Moravian Cemetery, Todt Hill. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. Teresa’s Food Pantry (please add Food Pantry in the check memo line) or to the Alzheimer’s Association