Mr. Anthony J. "Cory" Cortese

UTICA - Mr. Anthony J. “Cory” Cortese, age 91, left the world “his way” on Tuesday, November 21, 2017. Born in Utica on March 31, 1926, Anthony was the son of the late Frank and Rosina (Ferraro) Cortese. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Cory honorably served in active duty as a Private First Class from 1943-1946 during World War II. He carried out a second tour of duty during the Korean Conflict. On May 2, 1953 he married the former Josephine T. Traglia with whom he shared 29 years prior to her passing on March 3, 1983. In his early working years in the 1960’s, Cory was the owner and operator of Gray’s Bedding & Carpet Cleaning. He later held employment with the New York State Inspection Department. Cory cared about his community and its youth, attributes that led to his role as a Scout Master for the Boy Scouts of America, Upper Mohawk Council Troop 5 for many years. An intelligent man, he was also a civic-minded citizen and a dedicated local politician. He had wonderful opportunities in the Utica and state Democratic Parties and had the honor of attending several Presidential Inaugurations. He was the City Democratic Chairman under Rufus Elefante for several years. He was a member of the New York State Retirement System and the Director of the Urban Renewal Project here in Utica in 1968. Anthony was one of the last of his generation. Cory enjoyed spending time with his friends and taking long rides with his buddies to relax and catch up on conversation. He loved the St. Lawrence River, summers at Cape Vincent, and fishing and boating with his kids and grandkids. He also loved games of chance and the excitement of Las Vegas and local casinos. He took pleasure in the pastime of playing cards socially and at family gatherings. Anthony is survived by his children and their loved ones, daughters, Christine A. Cortese, and Mary Ellen Schrader and Gary Falchi; and son, Alfred A. Cortese and Christine Secor. Always close to his heart was the memory of his son Anthony F. Cortese who passed away on October 10, 2002. He also leaves his grandchildren, Joseph C. Cortese; Michael Schrader and Kelley, and Caitlyn Schrader; Jenna Lyn Cortese and Dan, Alexandra Cortese; Anthony “JR” Cortese Jr., and Zachary T. Cortese; great-grandchildren, Nicholas and Peyton; Haley Rose. He will be remembered by his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He was favored by many friendships throughout his life including his lifelong friend, Jack “Turk” Zogby, and his special friend, Richie Enos. He was predeceased by his brothers, Alfred N. “Fred” Cortese, Frank Cortese, Paul Cortese, and Anthony Cortese who passed away in infancy and whose name was passed on to Cory; and his sisters, Rose Annuich, Mary Gifune, Catherine Montana, and Nettie Franchina. The family is grateful to the staff of the Rome Veterans Administration Clinic, especially Dr. Mahesh Padmanabhan and Laura Radley/RN; and the personnel of the Sitrin Health Care Center for the kind and courteous care shown to Anthony and his family. Cory’s children will carry out his final wish; after his cremation his remains will be scattered in the St. Lawrence River.

Mr. Anthony J. "Cory" Cortese

March 31, 1926 - November 21, 2017