Mr. Albert D. "Al" Castano

Mr. Albert “Al” D. Castano, age 85, a winter resident of Florida, passed away on Thursday, September 22, 2016 in the comfort of his home. Born in Utica on October 9, 1930, Albert was the son of the late Thomas and Rosella (Santinello) Castano. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1949 and a graduate of Cortland College. He continued his education receiving a Masters in Public Health from the University of Michigan. Pursuing higher education was paramount to Al, an ideology he instilled in his children and grandchildren. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Al honorably served his country as an Army Physical Therapist during the Korean Conflict. At one time, he was married to the former Marjorie Gelatt and to that relationship came the blessing of three children. In 2000, he entered into a second union when he married the former Shirley (Trowbridge) Meola; they were a compatible couple who shared common interests and brought out the best in one another. Al was employed as a Health Planner for Humana Corporation. In another capacity he was an advocate for those who were challenged both physically and mentally, working tirelessly to accomplish his goal to better their lives and ease their daily burdens. He learned sign language to communicate with the deaf and hard of hearing as well. Al subsequently traveled throughout the country always looking to find the best job opportunities which made for an accomplished career. In 1995 he returned to Utica where he found a fulfilling job as a physical therapist at the Sitrin Health Care Center, the position from which he retired. Al was a humble, yet well-accomplished man. Although much of his time was devoted to his education, vocation, and job transition, his heart belonged to his family. He was a supportive dad and grandpa, and he held his kids in admiration and love. He also held them to high standards and expectations. They were very proud of their dad and valued the life lessons he passed on to them. Al enjoyed and excelled in conversation on a variety of subjects. With his animated, outgoing personality and his prowess in performing magical acts, he was a hit as a host. He would unwind a joke with a perfect punchline. He really was the life of the party. He was an accomplished gymnast and his athletic abilities were exceptional. He was a staunch supporter of Ohio State Buckeyes football and followed the team with enthusiasm. During his retirement, Al and Shirley set out to travel the world. Italy was his favorite destination and he journeyed there 5 times. It was the home of his ancestors and he was captivated by its history and culture. A Catholic by faith, Al opened his heart to the will of the Lord. He loved his family and above all, they could not have been more proud of this man they call “Dad”. Albert is survived by his wife, Shirley; his daughters, Rosella Castano, and Christina “Tina” and son-in-law Bill Miley, his son Alberto T. “Little Al” and daughter-in-law, Marylouise Castano; his grandchildren, Christianna; Jesse, and Juliana; and Garrett; and his great-granddaughter, Gabriella. Al also knew the love of Shirley’s children, Warren and Tosca Meola, Gary and Karin Meola, as well as their children. He also leaves his sister and brother-in-law, Lucy and Thomas Talerico; his brother, Thomas Castano; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and a host of friends that enriched his life. He was predeceased by his brothers, Pat and Stella Castano, Sylvester “Cy” and Antoinette “Tee” Castano, and Dominick Castano; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Domenica “Toni” and Ned Roberts, Patricia and Gill Pavan, Eugenia “Joan” Curtis; and his sisters-in-law, Mary Castano, and Florence Castano. The family is grateful to Dr. Naji El Khoury, and the staff of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., for their compassionate care; and Shirley’s granddaughter, Kelly Meola, for her outstanding devotion in tending to his needs. In keeping with Al’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend Albert’s Memorial Service which will commence on Monday afternoon at 1:00 at the Utica College Newman Center, 1600 Burrstone Road, Utica where his Mass of Remembrance will be offered by Fr. Paul Drobin. In lieu of floral offerings memorial contributions may be considered to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc.; envelopes will be available at the service.

Mr. Albert D. "Al" Castano

October 9, 1930 - September 22, 2016