Lena Lucia Pianalto

Lena Lucia Pianalto, 93, departed this life peacefully on July 7, 2026, at The Greenhouse Cottages of Northwest Arkansas in Bentonville, where she spent her final days surrounded by her family and compassionate care. She was born on August 18, 1932, in the small town of Springtown, Arkansas. Lena was a cherished daughter of Domenico “Dick” Gaiche and Louise Cortiana Gaiche. During her early years, she lived a simple life, attending a small country school in Rocky Comfort of Benton County before dedicating her time to helping her parents on the family farm. It was during these tender years that she met the love of her life, Francis Pianalto, who would become her husband for over five decades. On September 26, 1951, Lena and Francis were married at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Tontitown, setting the foundation for a marriage filled with love, faith, and unwavering commitment. Together, they raised a family in a home built by Francis and his brothers, nurturing nine children with an abundance of love and laughter. Lena’s life was a testament to family devotion, a legacy carried on by her surviving children: Joyce and husband Bob Guptill, Debbie Pianalto, wife of Floyd, Rose Mary Carlow, Steve and wife Myra, Christine Martinez, Vernon and wife Donna, Sandra and husband Dale James, Vincent and wife Sandy, and Thomas and wife Gloria. Her lineage flourished to include 25 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, each a testament to her enduring spirit. Lena’s heart was immense, and her home was a gathering place where family was welcomed with open arms and where conversations, stories, food, games, and music filled the day. Lena was a dedicated homemaker and housewife. Chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, and homemade rolls were a Sunday staple. Canned fruits and vegetables filled the cellar shelves. Sewing and crocheting were done when she had any free time. Lena’s ability to whistle a tune while working is one of the grandest memories her children still carry in their hearts. Even as she devoted herself to her family, Lena found time to work part-time as a cook at the Venesian Inn when her children were older. She was a woman of strong faith, baptized and married at St. Joseph’s in Tontitown, where she remained a devout and active member throughout her life. Lena was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Francis; son, Floyd; son-in-law, Steve Carlow, husband of Rose Mary; grandsons, Jacob Martinez and Braiden Pianalto; sisters, Elizabeth Ceola and Edith Della Rosa; and brothers, Jim Gaiche and Pete Gaiche. Her memory will be forever cherished by those who survived her, and her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her. Visitation at St. Joseph Catholic Church will be Sunday, July 26, at 5:30 p.m., followed by Rosary services and eulogy at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, July 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Tontitown with Fr. Balaraju Akkala, Fr. Bala, officiating, a place that held profound meaning and sacred memories for her. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Tontitown. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Lena’s memory through St. Joseph’s Church Online Giving portal to St. Joseph’s Food Pantry or St. Joseph’s Historic Tower Memorial Gardens, or to a charity of your choice. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at The Greenhouse Cottages of Northwest Arkansas and Circle of Life Hospice in Bentonville for the compassionate and loving care they provided Lena in her final days. As we say goodbye to Lena, we celebrate a life filled with love, faith, and unwavering devotion to family. Her legacy is one of warmth, kindness, and a spirit that will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. Rest in peace, dear Lena; your memory is a blessing to us all. Online condolences may be left at www.siscofuneral.com.

Lena Lucia Pianalto

August 18, 1932 - July 7, 2026