In Memoriam

Gemma Impara Gemma P. Impara

September 27, 1915 -

July 11, 2009

Gemma P. Impara, having lived in Garden City for 60 years, passed away peacefully at her home on July 11th.

Mrs. Impara was a longtime member of the American Association of University Women, the Women's Club of Garden City, the Garden City Country Club and the University Club of Long Island.

Beyond her local club activities, she has been widely recognized for a lifetime devoted to philanthropic and charitable work on behalf of universities, churches, medical research institutes, hospitals, earthquake victims and helping needy but talented young scholars in medicine and social work.

Through her tireless volunteer work, she mobilized contributors and developed various fundraising programs and functions, the most famous of which was the "Autumn in New York" annual event at the Plaza Hotel which was attended by supporters nationwide.

Among recipients of substantial grants and awards from the proceeds of these events have been Columbia University, Long Island Friends of the Children's Blood Foundation, New York Association for the Blind. New York Medical College Institute for Research in Mental Retardation, Cerebral Palsy, Cabrini Medical Research and Development, Victims of the Friuli Earthquake and various churches, schools and professional scholarships.

In 1968, Mrs. Impara was cited by Dr. William J. McGill, President of Columbia University, for the benefits received by the University, most notably its School of Social Work.

Survived by her husband Joseph, son Joseph Jr., and daughter Gigi and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Gemma Impara will always be remembered for her personal warmth and who was always happiest when she was able to help someone.