Vivian B. Lombardi

            VIVIAN  FOPPIANO LOMBARDI

Vivian was born in Brooklyn, New York on January 30, 1922, to Mary and Andrew Foppiano. She was one of four sisters, Jenette the oldest, and Gloria and Patricia, both younger. Brother Andrew, the youngest of the family,  is the sole surviving member today. Vivian often spoke of what it was like growing up in the Great Depression, and how tough it was on her family. But in the end, it was no match for her and the Foppiano family, because when it was over,  they were left both closer and stronger. Vivian attended school in Brooklyn, first at P.S 157, graduating in 1936, and then at Brooklyn Girls High, the class of 1940, where she was both a Tutor and a PT captain, according to her yearbook. After graduating from school and with World War Two beginning, Vivian found work at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, supporting the war effort as a welder, doing work traditionally done by men. This was a job that she found challenging, and the pay was good too, helping her in supporting her family. While the war was still waging, in 1942, the U.S. created the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps (WAAC), urging able women to enlist, but there was a requirement of being 21 years old, so Vivian waited until 1943 and then joined. A short time later The WAAC was disbanded so Vivian enlisted with the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). The WAC gave all women soldiers full army status similar to male soldiers. Vivian was always proud of her service in WW2  and kept many friendships with her, even long after leaving the Army as a Corporal, in 1945, when the war ended. Back in Brooklyn, after the war, Vivian met her love, and future husband Henry Lombardi, who was like her a returning Army soldier. Life, later gave both Vivian and Henry three children, Richard and Henry, and Joy, and a home in the suburbs in Valley Stream. Family was everything to both Henry and Vivian, and they were loyal and dedicated, doing the very best they could to see their children live well and prosper. After the heartbreaking loss of Henry, her husband, Vivian, kept her home in Valley Stream enjoying regular visits from her children and her many loving grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. With a warm and generous heart, she managed to never forget any of the many birthdays and anniversaries. Vivian’s story would not be complete without the mention of her love and devotion to stray and homeless cats. One passing through her yard would always find loving compassion and leave with a full belly of food, making their day and Vivians too. It was a beautiful tribute to Vivian, when she turned 100 years old, surrounded by her family. She will always be warmly remembered forever in all our hearts.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Last Hope Animal Rescue