Mr. Benedict A. "Ben" Gerardi

Mr. Benedict A. "Ben" Gerardi, age 76, passed away peacefully in the privacy of his home on Sunday, November 15, 2015. Born in Utica on April 12, 1939, Benedict was the son of the late Benedict and Sadie (Foresti) Gerardi. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1957. As a working adult, Ben concurrently received an AAS from MVCC, awarded a BS at Utica College of Syracuse University as well as attending a number of courses in their MBA program. Ben was a proud veteran of the US Army National Guard. On April 8, 1961 he wed the former Joan P. Powell with whom he shared 55 years a marriage of their era; their years together were graced with true love, a commitment to their vows, and a healthy sense of humor. Ben’s working career included many years employed in managerial procurement positions at UNIVAC Corporation, Partlow Corporation, and ICL. He ventured into a second profession as a Sales Associate at Barnes & Noble, rewarding work for which he was well-suited. Knowledgeable and intelligent, he was an avid reader with a particular interest in history. As a patriarch, Ben was thoughtful, patient, and selfless in providing for his loved ones. He was a true family man who attended all his children’s activities and offered moral support and advice when it was needed. A masterful, creative baker, Ben’s heartfelt talents gave rise to traditional holidays that were meaningful and memorable. He also delved in arts and crafts, especially in woodwork and hand-painted articles. Doing for others warmed his heart and brought him joy, and every gift was given with much thought, meaning, and presentation. Over time, his job responsibilities afforded him an opportunity to relocate to Florida where he and Joan enjoyed the warmer climate for several seasons. In 2011 they moved back to the Utica area to be closer to their children. Ben held a sacred spirituality in his Catholic faith. He was grateful that God blessed him with three children who grew to become honest people, and grandchildren who brought him a realization of joy and a reflection of his best attributes that they embraced through his example. Ben is survived by his wife, Joan; his children and their spouses, Patricia and Steve Galinn, and Sandy and Jim D’Onofrio, all of New Hartford, and Michael A. Gerardi of Rome; his grandchildren, Brendan Galinn, Taylore Galinn; Michael and Jennifer D’Onofrio, Beth Ann D’Onofrio, and Tom D’Onofrio; and his great-granddaughter, Olivia Grace. His extended family includes his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, C. Joan Gerardi, Jane Powell, Michael and Diane Powell, Barbara Powell, Jeff and Laura (Strubbe) Powell, and Theresa Powell. Ben was blessed with many friends, especially remembering his lifelong friendship with Fr. Felix Colosimo, and his bonds with his nephew, Joseph Gerardi, Aunt Connie Russo and her late husband Carmen Russo, and Phyllis and Joe Rocco. He was predeceased by his brother, Joseph B. Gerardi, Sr. The family is grateful to Ben’s longtime caregivers, Dr. Bhisham Garg, and Dr. Domenic Aiello for their friendship and medical expertise; and the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. who came at a befitting time and totally embraced Ben’s needs, especially Crystal, and Irene. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Ben's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday evening at 6:00 at the funeral home upon conclusion of visitation with Sister Elizabeth Giarrusso, CSJ officiating the ceremony. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Benedict A. "Ben" Gerardi

April 12, 1939 - November 15, 2015