Anna (Vassallo) Constabile

Mrs. Anna (Vassallo) Constabile, age 88, of Utica, passed away on Thursday, December 8, 2005, at the St. Luke's Home. During her illness Anna was well-cared for by her son and family. Born in Utica on June 19, 1917, Anna was the daughter of the late John and Josephine (Graziano) Vassallo. She was raised and educated locally. On October 4, 1941 she married Salvatore "Sam" Constabile with whom she shared a union of 47 years prior to his passing on February 19, 1989. The couple enjoyed a marriage that was a true love story, one that was admired by those who knew them. After Sam's passing, Anna held their relationship to be as much of a sacred trust as she had during their years together. Her family takes great comfort in the knowledge that Anna and Sam are reunited. Mrs. Constabile was a longtime and loyal employee of the Joseph & Feiss Company where she worked as a seamstress until the time of her retirement. She was a dedicated member of the I.A.M. Union. She also belonged to the St. Anne Society, Eastside Senior Center, and the Daughters of Columbus. A deeply spiritual woman, she was a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Church. Anna was a true family woman. Her life revolved around her husband and her loved ones. She was never happier than when she was caring for them and for her home, most especially when she was preparing her family's favorite dishes. Steadfastly dedicated to those she loved, she considered motherhood to be her foremost purpose in life and the source of her greatest joy. An attentive and sympathetic listener, she was unselfish, accepting, and non-judgmental in relationships. Because she possessed a warm and hospitable manner, her door was always open. She was greatly admired for her style, her class, and her dignified ways. Anna is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Anthony J. and Karen Constabile of Whitesboro; and her grandchildren, Michael A. Constabile of Westchester County, Rhett Kristl, and Justin Kristl, both of Whitesboro. Her survivors also include two sisters and a brother-in-law, Josephine "Peppy" Vassallo of Utica, who was not only a devoted sister but was also a loving caregiver, and Rose and Vincent "Jim" Salerno of New Hartford; a brother and sister-in-law, Casper "Cappy" and Gloria Vassallo of New Hartford; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, godchildren, and cousins; and her in-laws, Mary and Matt Militano, Frank "Hank" Constabile, John Constabile, Marty Constabile, Anthony J. Ruggiero, Bonnie Constabile, and Marie Constabile. She was predeceased by three brothers, Philip, John, and Thomas Vassallo; and a godson, John Vassallo III. Always close to her heart were the memories of her in-laws who had preceded her in death. The family offers its sincere gratitude to the entire staff of the St. Luke's Home who were so comforting and compassionate in their care of Anna. Also, a special note of appreciation is extended to "Aunt Peppy" who was so dedicated and so unfailingly conscientious in caring for and watching over her sister. Visitation will be held today (Sunday) from 3-6 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Anna's name to the Alzheimer's Assn. or to the St. Luke's Home; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Mrs. Constablile's funeral will commence on Monday morning at 10:30 from the funeral home and at 11:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Entombment will take place in the Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Anna (Vassallo) Constabile

June 19, 1917 - December 8, 2005