Ann (Inserra) Calabrese

Ann (Inserra) Calabrese passed away peacefully on Friday, January 24, 2014 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with her devoted daughter by her side. Born in Utica, Ann was the daughter of the late Frank and Vincenzina (Aiello) Inserra; she was the last of the seven Inserra children. Raised and educated locally, she was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School as well as the Utica School of Commerce. Meticulous with numbers, she was a well regarded bookkeeper for the Savage Arms Company, Karrat Brothers Wholesale Fruit & Produce, and Cardamone Produce. She then took a position at Rig-All Company where she developed a camaraderie with the late Mary Ann Riggalls, where they mutually supported one another in the vision of the business and shared in a very loyal and confidential business relationship. If one were to reflect upon the length of Ann’s career, they would be remiss not to be amazed that she remained active in the workplace until the age of 90, an almost unheard of accomplishment in this day in age. Ann was a refined dignified, and humble woman, who lived her life through the guidance of the Lord. As a mother, she was her daughter’s best friend. She could talk about anything with her and she imparted the wisdom of her years to her. Endowed with a creative mind, she could knit without the accompaniment of a pattern. Her daughter and loved ones will treasure the many afghans and specialty items she bestowed to them. She entertained with grace and great style, and all were welcome at her table. She canned with pride and precision, and prepared many dishes derived from recipes that her mother passed down to her, which made her very proud. Ann was deeply devoted to her Catholic faith and remained loyal to her church, St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, where she received all her Sacraments. Knowing that her funeral Mass would be celebrated in this House of the Lord was beautiful and comforting to her. Ann is survived by her cherished daughter, Anne “Annie” Calabrese of Utica. Her passing will also be mourned by her many nieces, nephews, especially Salvatore Inserra who was very involved in her life and brightened her days by sharing his daughter Nina with her; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sisters-in-law, Ninfa Inserra, and Rosetta Inserra. She was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Rose and James Gallicchio; and her brothers and sisters-in-law, Frank and Cora Inserra, George and Mary Inserra, Salvatore “Tato” and Nellie Inserra, Rosario “Raz” Inserra, and Anthony “Sonny” Inserra. The family is grateful to Dr. Jerry Sloan for his friendship and professional courtesies which were so touching to Ann and Annie. The family will honor and commemorate Ann’s life at a private time. By family request, please omit flowers. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Ann's funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday at 12:00 noon at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta and con-celebrant, Rev. Joseph Salerno. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. Entombment will take place in Christ Our Savior Mausoleum at Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.