Grace Acquafredda

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Grace Acquafredda, who left us on November 7, 2024, with her loving and devoted husband Sam by her side. Grace was born in Philadelphia, Pa, on July 11, 1933 to Anthony and Patricia Menichella but as a baby came to Staten Island, her mother and grandmother’s birthplace.

Grace attended Curtis High School and Hunter College and in 1957, she married Sam, her childhood sweetheart and love of her life, and the two of them went on to live a long and prosperous life together. Grace was blessed with the voice of an angel and her singing often was the highlight of family gatherings and holidays. One of her favorite songs to sing, and which she sang so beautifully was Danny Boy, reminiscent of her little brother, and a stark reminder that life is full of love and loss.

In pursuit of her love of music, Grace was a member of several choral groups on the Island and enjoyed going to the theater and the opera. She was an avid and distinguished bridge player, having won many tournaments. She loved cooking, cruising, crossword puzzles and brain games of all kinds, astonishing her family with her keen wit. More than anything, Grace loved spending time with her family, especially her 6 grandchildren, whom she adored. Grace and Sam routinely canceled their social plans just so they could babysit. Nothing gave them more joy than to spend time with their grandchildren.

Grace was predeceased by her mother and father, Patricia and Anthony Menichella; her infant sister Patricia Menichella; and brother Dan Menichella (Mary Ann). She is survived by her husband of 67 years Dr. Sam Acquafredda; her daughters Dr. Donna Acquafredda (Dr. Eugene Holuka) and Grace Acquafredda, Esq. (Christopher Boyle); and her sister Patricia Brennan (James). She also is survived by her grandchildren: Gregory Holuka; Dr. Jonathan Holuka; Sarah Boyle; Zachary Holuka; Erin Boyle; and Jack Boyle, as well as several nieces and nephews.