Virginia Claire Carosone

Virginia Carosone, 90, fondly known to many as “Virg” or “Merme”, passed away November 24, 2024, under the tremendous care of New Horizons Assisted Living Center and Anaconda Pintler Hospice.  Virginia was born September 27, 1934, to parents Fred and Clara Mesenko of Anaconda. She grew up and graduated from Anaconda Central High in 1952. She then attended and graduated from St. Mary’s College in Kansas with degrees in both Chemistry and Home Economics.  Upon return to Anaconda, she worked as a chemist at the Smelter.  Virginia was very proud of her time on “The Hill.”  After her marriage to Elmer Carosone, she found herself as a day-to-day keeper at the Anaconda Country Club, all the while carrying for her family.

The consummate mother and housewife, there was no stain she couldn’t get out of the laundry, nothing couldn’t be stitched or sewn. No matter what her sons Vince and Rick were participating in, she never missed an event.  Later in life, she lovingly embraced her grandchildren and granddogs who always looked forward to visiting as each knew the special attention they would receive. Her finest efforts were in the kitchen. From a small treat to a huge holiday feast with all the trimmings, she was an exceptional host, preparing and serving to family and friends.

An endearing memory is that Virginia loved her “Sweets” which would bring a smile to her face and a small giggle with each bite. A day for her started with a crossword puzzle, coffee and anything sweet, then maybe a session with her beloved Bridge Club.  A woman of faith, she regularly attended Mass until her health no longer allowed her to.  Very intelligent, highly personable and always willing to help, she made a great recruit for many civic and community groups. As a person who loved serving others, she was a member of Optimist Club and PEO as well as the Director of the local Chamber of Commerce for many years.

Virginia and her husband Elmer enjoyed traveling, seeing friends and relatives, and attending many special sporting and entertainment events. A student of all her endeavors, she would research and plan their trips to make the most of their experiences.

Through her education, employment, social groups, and hobbies, Virginia developed and maintained wonderful, lifelong friendships.  She was a kind, caring, gentle soul. She died as she lived: a special person who loved many and was loved by many.  She will be greatly missed.

Virginia was preceded in death by her mother Clara, father Fred, mother-in-law Bambina, father-in-law Ottovio, husband Elmer, sister Marianne, and brother-in-law Pete Malen. She is survived by her sons Vince and Rick (Heather); grandsons Tanner Carosone, Duncan (Amber) and Noah Aufdengarten, their father Pat and mother Audra; granddaughter Madelyn Bouchard and her parents Sherry and Mike; nephews Peter (Annette), their children Carson (Aubrey), Preston, Anneliese (Evan); and Paul (Christy) Malen, their son Caleb; and niece Karen (Paul) Hogle; sister-in-law Florence Murphy, niece Lynn Murphy, and nephew Bob (Denise) Murphy; and her two granddogs Cozmo and Rocky.

A service will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Anaconda Pintler Hospice (406-563-7023), 118 E. 7th Street, Anaconda, MT 59711, or Chapter T of PEO (406-560-6180), 10104 Eastside Road, Deer Lodge, MT 59722.

Please visit the side bar to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Virginia.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Virginia and her family.