Angeline Catherine (Bilotti) Salerno

Angeline Catherine (Bilotti) Salerno, 98, left with her angels in DePere, Wisconsin on April 4, 2016. She was born on August 26, 1917 to the late Nicola Bilotti and Mary Angela (Cerminara) Bilotti. Angeline lived a good long life of 98 years, during which she wore many hats - wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, artist and friend. She graduated valedictorian from Kenosha Bradford High School, breaking all scholastic records. Angelina also graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1938, with a Bachelors Degree in Art Education and a minor in Italian Studies. She worked as an art teacher in Madison prior to her family moving to Manitowoc, where she continued her teaching at Benjamin Franklin Elementary School. Because of her expertise in the Italian language, she was often called upon by corporations to serve as a translator. Angie was an extraordinary cook and baker, and her recipes were the mainstay at the Pizza Garden in Manitowoc, owned by her brother, Dan Bilotti, and husband, John. Her versatile talents were demonstrated in the restaurant décor, as well as in the recipes and behind the scenes management. Although she didn’t like the word, she truly was the “matriarch” and counsel for all who knew her, especially her family. Angie’s advice was always sound, real, honest and without ulterior motive and her love was always unconditional. Angie was interested in politics, sports, music, the arts and she loved to read and watch good movies. She could tell you what they wore at the Oscars and then turn around and talk about Packer draft choices. Both she and John took an interest in their children’s friends- cooking for them, teasing them and making them feel comfortable like a member of the family. Angie had an innate ability to know exactly what to say and when to say it. She was perceptive and kind
and her wonderful wit brought such joy to all who know her. Angie always said that her greatest accomplishment in life was raising two children who were close to each other and that gave her great comfort. She will continue to be our life compass and when we are faced with decisions, we will forever ask, “what would Angie do?”

Angie is survived by her son, John (Christine); daughter, Tory (Sean); grandchildren Madeline, Frankie and Antonio; sister, Diane “Dee” (Bill) Belleau; and sister-in-law, Dell Bilotti. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. She was a profound influence on all who knew and loved her, especially her grandchildren. She and her sister, Dee, were the closest as sisters could be.

Angie is preceded in death by her remarkable brothers, Dan, Ray, and Ronald “Duds,”; niece, Gina Bilotti; sisters-in-law, Irene and June Bilotti; and best friend, Ellen Erickson.

We would like to thank the special staff at Angels on Arcadian and Compassus Hospice for their care of Angie, especially during these last days.

Per Angie’s wishes, a private celebration of her life will take place at a later date. Simply Cremation assisted the family with cremation services, 431-0100.

“I wish you health, but more than wealth, I wish you love.”