Mrs. Carmella (Macri) Vasile

Mrs. Carmella (Macri) Vasile, age 86, of Utica, went Home to be with the Lord peacefully on Saturday, February 26, 2011. Her passing occurred at the Presbyterian Home for CNY, Inc. with the love and support of her daughter. Born in Utica on May 17, 1924, Carmella was the daughter of the late Frank and Catherine (Ebbole) Macri. She was raised and educated locally. As a young woman she worked at Griffiss Air Force Base where she met the love of her life, Alphonse J. “Al” Vasile. February 4, 1945 marked the beginning of their 28 year journey through life as husband and wife, until her beloved Al passed away on November 22, 1973. Their daughter takes comfort at this difficult time in knowing that Carmella is now reunited with those she deeply loved who preceded her. For many years during her working life, Carmella was employed at the Boston Store as a retail clerk in the Ladies Apparel and Fur Department. Upon the birth of her daughter, she left her employment to devote herself to raising her family and caring for her home. When her daughter grew older, she returned to the workforce at General Electric and Mele Manufacturing. With the desire to help others and to stay mentally and socially active after her retirement, Carmella volunteered at the Neighborhood Center. She was involved in the Grandmothers Program which fulfilled her love of children, which was her passion. During her leisure time she enjoyed bingo, games of chance, bus trips, outdoor activities, picnics, and barbeques. In line with her Italian traditions, Sunday mornings were made memorable with pizza fritta, meatballs, and conversation. She always had a houseful of family and friends, and holidays were special to her, complete with all her meaningful and delightful homemade delicacies. Carmella was grounded in her faith, and spiritually uplifted by prayers, novenas, and her belief in the scripture readings which brought her comfort and peace. After her husband’s passing, she continued living her life according to God’s plan which included an uninterrupted love and affection for her loved ones. She was a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. All in all, because of her faith, love of family, and determination, she was a blessed woman. Carmella is survived by her daughter, Rosemary Vasile of Frankfort, who loved her mother and cared for her with a tireless devotion. She affectionately called her “Melly”, and they were truly best friends. In addition, she leaves her nieces and nephews with special mention of Sandra, Erin, Karen, and Linda; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Rose Macri, Marion Macri, and Carmella Vasile. She was also blessed with many wonderful friendships throughout her life, with special mention of Rosemarie, Ray, and Lorraine with whom she shared the most wonderful and selfless bond. She was predeceased by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Rocco and Flora Macri, Louis and Josephine Macri, Peter J. Macri, Sr., Joseph Macri, Sr., Frank and Joan Macri; infant siblings, Mary, and Louie; and her in-laws, Louis and Virginia Vasile, George and Josephine Vasile, James Vasile, and Joseph and Grace Vasile. Rosemary extends sincere appreciation to Dr. William Hall; the Washington Mills Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Medical Imaging Group who played a very instrumental part in caring for Carmella; and the Maple Wing staff at the Presbyterian Home for CNY for their support, care and kindness. May each of them know they were a guiding light in Carmella’s journey; also, the Social Services Department, especially Peggy and Wendy, for continued guidance in a positive direction; and to Lucy Viti, the head of nursing, for providing the necessary comforts with her gentle and sincere concerns. Carmella’s family will honor her life in a private moment. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Carmella’s funeral service and Celebration of her new beginning which will commence on Thursday at 12:00 noon at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Carmella’s nephew, Rev. Louis A. Vasile from St. Alphonsus Church in Auburn. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Children’s Miracle Network in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available at the service. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. .

Mrs. Carmella (Macri) Vasile

May 17, 1924 - February 26, 2011