Cpt. Bernard J. "Bernie" Gigliotti, Jr. Ret. UFD

Captain Bernard J. “Bernie” Gigliotti, Jr., Retired UFD, age 85, of New Hartford, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 in his home, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Born in Utica on March 3, 1927, Bernard was the son of the late Bernard, Sr., UPD and Josephine (Zammiello) Gigliotti. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of Utica Free Academy. He began his studies at Utica College but chose to defend his country as he enlisted in the United States Navy serving in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II. On May 30, 1950 he married the former Concetta M. “Connie” Julian with whom he shared 62 years. Bernie and Connie were truly in love and honored each day together. They enjoyed an active social life and had a flair for entertaining gracefully as a team. Naples, Florida was their “home away from home” where they spent the past 30 years of their retirement. Bernie carried out a distinguished 25-year career with the Utica Fire Department. He was hired in 1950, promoted to Lieutenant in 1958, promoted to Captain in 1973, and retired on February 1, 1975. In 1952 he established, along with his father, Gigliotti’s Driving School which is still located at 339 Genesee Street today. He was very instrumental in this family concern and personable with his clients. Bernie was a gentleman of integrity, providing not only professional driving lessons, but also excellent conversation and insight into life’s issues. Whether with family, friends, or patrons, he was a joy to be around. He was honest and humble in all his relationships, and formed intelligent decisions. He was proudest of his children and the relationship he had with his grandchildren. He traveled to all of their sporting events, often many miles away, just to be there personally. He was their # 1 greatest fan, always dressing in the proper team attire. He also held close the memories of his parents and grandparents and the generations that defined them and anytime there was a family gathering, he was in heaven. Celebrating special family occasions, assuring educational opportunities, and exhibiting good moral and ethical beliefs were core values to Bernie which lives on in his legacy. He was an ardent history buff, broadening his capacity by reading books and viewing the History Channel. He also pursued antiquing and collecting clocks, and was a member of the National Association of Clock Collectors. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and he held a special place in his heart for Notre Dame High School. He liked walking with his wife and was a strong proponent of physical exercise before it became widely popular. He also enjoyed bowling. He was a 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus, both in Utica and Florida, a member of the Elks Club, and the Italian/American Club. He was always in good standing with his Catholic faith that he practiced at Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Bernie is survived by his beloved wife, Connie; his daughter and son-in-law, Cynthia “Cindy” and David J. Circelli, Sr.; his son and daughter-in-law, Bernard J. III “Bernie” and Johann (Sadallah) Gigliotti, all of Sauquoit; his grandchildren, David J. Circelli, Jr. and Amy Hladik; Michelle and Michael Hartmann; Bernard J. IV “B.J.” Gigliotti and fiancée Jeanice Ramos; and Kristin M. Gigliotti. The family extends sincere appreciation to Dr. Kevin McCormick, his family and his staff for their tireless personal and professional service over the years. Special recognition is also offered to his caregivers Chaz, Doreen, Carol, Debbie, Toni, and Melissa who sustained Bernie’s existence with their respect, love, and special lasting relationship. The family honored and commemorated Bernie’s life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Friday morning at 11:00 at Our Lady of the Rosary Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Felix Colosimo with Military Honors conferred. The family will graciously receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. Memorial contributions may be made to the family enabling them to establish a Scholarship Fund; envelopes will be available at the service. Entombment will take place privately in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Cpt. Bernard J. "Bernie" Gigliotti, Jr. Ret. UFD

March 3, 1927 - July 17, 2012