Laura Cristaldi, age 54, died peacefully after a lengthy but courageous battle with lung cancer and Crohn's disease.

Laura was born in Brockton and grew up in Hanson. She was a graduate of Cardinal Spellman High School, Class of 1985 where she excelled at softball. She was also an avid pool player.

Laura spent her summers at the family cottage near Swifts Beach in Wareham. It was there, as a teenager, she met her future longtime significant other Robert Pollara. The two have been together for the past 20 plus years. Laura would describe Rob as “her rock” from which she gained support, strength, and encouragement as her medical conditions made her life seemingly impossible at times. Yet he was always there for her and was never too tired or too busy to make sure she was comfortable. When Laura was feeling good, she loved the one-armed bandits at Twin River Casino or getting lunch with her “bestie” Beth. As her ailments became worse Laura still stayed positive and never lost her loving personality. Her favorite fur-companions were her dog Lola and Bob, her 18-year-old cat whom she loved to watch tv with. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Laura was the devoted girlfriend to Robert Pollara of Wareham. She was the devoted daughter of the late Anthony and Catherine (Dolan) Cristaldi. Sister of Phillip Cristaldi of East Bridgewater and Anthony Cristaldi of Rochester, and the late Cathy Cristaldi. Close friend and former sister-in-law of Jean Cristaldi of Fairhaven and special “Auntie” to her children Madison and Nick. Best friend of Beth Tuell of South Middleboro and also survived by many loving friends.

A Celebration of Life for Laura will be held this fall at the Wareham/New Bedford Lodge of Elks. Please check back for further details.

In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the American Cancer Society by visiting www.cancer.org To leave a message of condolence visit: www.chapmanfuneral.com.