Carmella Rose Hartka

On April 1, 2020, Carmella (nee Silvestro), age 82 passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side at Samaritan Hospice in Voorhees.  Born and raised in Philadelphia, Carmella moved to Haddon Township to raise her family after marrying her devoted husband, Robert Hartka, who she affectionately referred to as her “pie”.

Carmella is the loving daughter of the late Pietro and Mary Silvestro of Philadelphia.  She is the faithful wife of 59 years to Robert and the beloved mother of Marianne Hartka-Homan (Brian), Diane Martino, Carolanne Kelly (Gary), and Pattianne Preziosi.  She is adoringly survived by 6 grandchildren  Nicola, Giavanna, Domenic, Bella Rosa, Robert, Christian, the late AvaRose, and 4 great grandchildren Giann, Joey, Sophie, and Sloane and numerous nieces and nephews.  She is survived by her siblings Alphonsine, Rita, Joey and Shirley and predeceased by siblings Philomena (Mamie), Ruthie, Donald, Rosie, Domenic, Cynthia and John.

Carmella was the proud matriarch of her family, deeply involved and always willing to listen and help.  She was nurturing, selfless, and compassionate toward everyone she met.  She cherished her husband and family, more than anything. She spent many summers with her family in Sea Isle and Wildwood Crest.  The memories that she created with them are truly priceless. She was a longtime member of Holy Savior Parish (Blessed Teresa of Calcutta) from the time she moved to NJ.  She was active in PTA while her children attended the school and in later years, after retirement worked at the school, lovingly serving hundreds of children lunches.  More recently, she enjoyed traveling to the Lawnside Dunkin Donuts, surrounded by family while she entertained the whole room with her effervescent spirit, charming wit and colorful storytelling.  She will be deeply missed, but certainly never forgotten by her family, friends and anyone who knew her.

Her immediate family will be at her graveside to celebrate her life.  A memorial, open to all at a later date that will be announced in the future.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Samaritan Healthcare and Hospice, 5 Eves Drive, Suite 300, Marlton, NJ 08053 or at www.samaritannj.com .

Arrangements by Jackson Funeral Home, Haddon Township, NJ www.jacksonfh.net