Anita (Santoro) Esper

Mrs. Anita (Santoro) Esper, age 52, of North Utica, joined the choir of Angels when she passed away on Tuesday, December 21, 2010 in the comfort of her home with the love and support of her family by her side. Born in Utica on July 14, 1958, Anita was the daughter of the late Thomas A. and Jeanette (Nogas) Santoro. Raised and educated locally, she was a 1976 graduate of St. Francis De Sales High School. On June 28, 1980 she married Joseph P. Esper with whom she shared 30 years; the cornerstone of their marriage was based on mutual respect, honest communication, commitment, and the depth of their love. Anita worked at various area businesses, including St. Elizabeth Hospital, Coldwell Banker Realty as a secretary, the Utica Public Library, and lastly Calvary Cemetery as a receptionist. A graceful and elegant woman, she was also blessed with an unselfish nature and was a “servant to all”. Her presence and sincerity in her eyes reflected what was in her heart. She was private and independent, and she carried her burden with such strength and composure. Anita’s motherly instinct defined her as a true family woman, and when her loved ones gathered for special occasions it made her so happy. She held her personal spirituality in the depth of her soul and she was a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Anita is survived by her husband, Joe; and her daughter, Angela C. Esper of N.Utica. She was anticipating the birth of a granddaughter in several months, “Emily Grace”. She cherished in her heart the memory of her granddaughter, Marlana Natalie, who passed away on October 17, 2007. She will also be missed by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Annette Santoro and Mark Punzi of Utica, Debbie and Michael Kowalczyk of Whitesboro, and Celeste and Bill Boris of VA; her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, in-laws, Carmen F. Esper, and Tony and Joseanne Esper, and Patty Esper; and her dear and loyal friends, Ella, Marjie, and Ruby. She was predeceased by her in-laws, Anthony and Natalie Esper, and David Esper, Sr. The family is grateful to Dr. Richard Cherny of Syracuse, and the staff at the Regional Cancer Center at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, especially Annie Flagg; thanks also to Fr. Abe Esper, Fr. Amedeo Guida, and Fr. Richard Dellos for their spiritual guidance; and Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. for their compassion, especially the dedication of Navaz, whose presence made all the difference. Visitation will be held Wednesday (today) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Anita’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday morning at 11:00 from the funeral home and at 12:00 noon at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered. Committal prayers will take place at Christ Our Savior Chapel with interment to follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Anita (Santoro) Esper

July 14, 1958 - December 21, 2010