Rosario Barone Niagara Falls Obituary:Longtime Owner of Portage Bakery Has Passed Away
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Rosario “Ross” Barone, the longtime owner of Portage Bakery and a cherished cornerstone of our Niagara Falls community.
Ross’s story was the embodiment of the immigrant dream. Arriving from Italy in 1968 with little more than two suitcases and determination, he built Portage Bakery into a beloved local institution over nearly six decades. For generations of families, a visit for his fresh Italian bread, pastries, or legendary sandwiches became a cherished tradition—a simple pleasure passed from parents to children to grandchildren.
Yet, beyond the bakery’s warmth and aroma, it was Ross’s personal warmth that truly defined him. He was the kind of man who would call just to wish you a Merry Christmas or a Happy Easter. Many of us still have those kind voice messages saved, small treasures that speak volumes about his thoughtful and generous spirit. He was always thinking of others.
His passing leaves a void in our hearts and on Portage Road. Ross will be deeply missed. We take comfort knowing his legacy is in excellent hands, for the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. His wonderful family will undoubtedly continue the beautiful tradition he started.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Barone family and to the countless customers and friends whose lives were sweetened by Ross’s kindness, his hard work, and his unforgettable bread.
Oh yes my family has been with Portage Bakery for four generations and Ross didn’t change a thing that’s why we’re still with Portage Bakery we started and 1930s when Pete matola owned it and Ross kept up the quality we were so happy that he did his lovely family are already serving this community the way Ross taught them
To all the b a r o n e family it is with great sadness that I send you all my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your precious father I will certainly miss his smile each time I go to Portage Bakery for my favorites rest in peace Ross you deserve it God bless all of you