Maria Giulia Modolo Welch Lewis

May 24, 1929 – June 5, 2026.  

Rochester: Friday, June 5, 2026 at age 97, she passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family.  

Maria was born on May 24, 1929, in Pordenone, Italy; the daughter of Pietro and Caterina  Modolo. In 1946, she courageously emigrated to the United States, where she built a life  defined by strength, determination, and devotion to her family.  

She was preceded in death by her parents, her six siblings in Italy, and her beloved  daughter, Charlette “Susie” Welch.  

Maria leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory forever: her daughters,  Catherine Linda (James Sr.) Muhs, Donna (Matthew) Livernash, and Renae Lewis (Mark  Jewell); her sons, Mark Welch, Daniel (Tina) Welch, Donald Lewis, and Randal (Sharyl)  Lewis. She was a proud grandmother to James Muhs Jr., Frances (Fritz) Zagorski, Kevin  Muhs, Anthony Maiuri, Ethan Livernash and Nicholas Welch, as well as a treasured great grandmother to three great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.  

Maria was a woman of remarkable character—stubborn, loyal, and fiercely protective of  those she loved. Her family was the center of her world, and she found her greatest joy in  spending time with them. Whether gathered around a card table, sharing stories of growing  up in Italy, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Maria’s presence brought strength and  laughter to those around her.  

She enjoyed playing bingo, card games, and listening to music; simple pleasures that  brought her happiness throughout her life. Her resilience, independence, and unwavering  love for her family will be remembered by all who knew her.  

Though her passing leaves a profound void, her legacy lives on through the generations she  nurtured and loved. She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of her family  and friends. 

Friends may call Wednesday (June 10th) 10:00 – 12:00 PM at Vay-Schleich and Meeson, 1075 Long Pond Road. Her Funeral Service will be held following calling at 12 Noon in the Funeral Home Chapel. Interment, Irondequoit Cemetery.