Carlo C. Fanelli, Sr.

Mr. Carlo C. Fanelli, Sr., age 86, of Utica, passed away on Thursday, December 22, 2005 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his loving family and friends by his side. Born in Utica on September 5, 1919, Carlo was the son of the late Egidio and Teresa (Graziadei) Fanelli. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of World War II, he served with the 8th Air Force Division of the U.S. Army Air Force in the European Theater of Operations. On August 7, 1948 he was joined in marriage with the former Carmella "Karmy" Ranieri. Throughout their 57-year union, Carlo and Karmy enjoyed a wonderful life together. As two people who were truly and always in love with one another, they created a rewarding relationship based upon their perfect harmony and compatibility. Mr. Fanelli began his career working alongside his brothers as a loyal and dedicated member of Central Express Trucking. When the company was purchased by Teal's Express, Carlo continued his employment with the firm, working there until his retirement. During that time, he established many valued and memorable friendships. After retiring from the trucking industry, he began a new career when he joined the staff of the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. in the early 1980's. He had many special and admirable qualities in ways that were of great benefit to his associates. In fact, he was so understanding, compassionate, and helpful, not only to those in need but also to everyone with whom he associated, that he endeared himself to his fellow staff members as a beloved father figure. Contributing to Carlo's exceptional success was the fact that he possessed "a heart of gold" and many personal qualities such as his sense of honor, his unshakable loyalty to loved ones and friends, his quiet wisdom, and his honesty. He was always available to give good and reasonable advice, and the guidance and sentiments he offered were always spoken with humility and sincerity. These and numerous other special qualities allowed him to walk in the path of God's goodness each and every day. Although Carlo was a man who was truly deserving of happiness because of his own strength of character and good heart, he never took his blessings for granted, but instead deeply cherished and appreciated the good life and the good friends that were so meaningful to him. He was a communicant of St. Anthony of Padua Church. Carlo was an exemplary family man. His life, his heart, and his happiness centered upon his loved ones. He considered his son to be his greatest joy and most notable accomplishment, not only as the child that he and Karmy raised, but also as the man that Carlo Jr. became. Carlo and Carlo Jr. also shared a love for the NY Giants, the team which they have followed for years as avid and loyal fans. Carlo is survived by his devoted wife, Karmy; and his son and daughter-in-law, Carlo C. Jr. and Hui Pun Fanelli of MD. His survivors also include two brothers, Michael "Kelly" Fanelli of Utica, and George Fanelli, currently residing at the Presbyterian Home for Central NY; and his in-laws, Mary Jean and John Humphrey and their children, with whom he shared a meaningful closeness and a strong sense of commitment such that he considered them as his own family. Carlo is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; and his longtime and dear friends, Lenny and Yolanda Benedetto, and Marie Robitaccio. He was predeceased by two sisters and brothers-in-law, Angeline and John Altieri, and Josephine and Nicholas Bucciero; four brothers and sisters-in-law, Samuel P. Fanelli, Daniel D. Fanelli, Fidele and Elizabeth Fanelli, and Rocco and Lena Fanelli; and a sister-in-law, Frances Fanelli. The family offers its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Sudershan Dang and Dr. Kevin Nelson who attended Carlo with caring attitudes, personal compassion, and professional expertise. Thanks also to the staff of Kunkel Limousine Co. and the attendants of Kunkel Ambulance, both for their longtime friendship and association and also for their timely, competent, and comforting response and service. The family is also appreciative of the ER staff and the personnel of the 3rd floor at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Visitation will be held Tuesday (today) from 4-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Mr. Fanelli's Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated with Military Honors, on Wednesday morning at 11:00 at St. Anthony of Padua Church. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Carlo C. Fanelli, Sr.

September 5, 1919 - December 22, 2005