Triggianis gather for first time in 60 years

It took 60 years for the descendants of the Triggiani family of Monessen to finally get together for a reunion with the remaining family members.

Francesco and Maria Domenica Triggiani raised their five children at 344 Schoonmake Ave., Monessen. Submitted

The Triggiani family’s roots began at a home at 344 Schoonmaker Ave., in Monessen, where Francesco Triggiani and Maria Domenica (Salvino) Triggiani raised their five children: Libra (Triggiani) Zema, Pasqualina (Triggiani) Kretel, Dominick (Diane), Johnny (Catherine) and Joseph (Angeline) Triggiani.

Sadly, a sixth child, Gabriel, died at a very young age.

Libra “Lee” and husband George, moved to Van Nuys, Calif., shortly after marriage. They had four children: Annette, Nancy, George and Jimmy.

Pasqualina “Lena,” and husband Joe, took up residence in Charleroi, where they raised two children: JoAnn and Ronnie.

Dominic and his wife Diane remained in Monessen and raised two children: Richard and Carolyn.

Johnny and his wife Catherine also remained in Monessen and raised two children: Jackie and Linda.

Youngest son Joseph and wife Angeline made Sharon, Pa., their home and raised their three children: Frank, Donna and Joey.

After 60 years, the grandchildren of Francesco and Maria (known as Grandpa and Grandma T) finally came together for a family reunion. The long overdue event was held in Hermitage, Pa., and hosted by Frank Triggiani. The cousins came from the four corners of the United States to attend.

The family shared stories of days gone by spent in Monessen and the Mon Valley visiting their grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins and friends.