Catherine R. (Casalere) LaBrie

Mrs. Catherine R. (Casalere) LaBrie, age 94, of Utica, passed away on Friday, October 1, 2010 in the comfort and privacy of her home with her daughter Rita by her side. Born in Utica on August 6, 1916, Catherine was the daughter of the late Anthony and Angela Marie (Magaldi) Casalere. She was raised and educated locally. On February 15, 1947 she married Alfred “Al” LaBrie who passed away on September 6, 1986; during their 39-year union they were loving and devoted to each other. During her younger years Catherine dedicated her time working at the Canadarago Amusement Park, a landmark in Richfield Springs which was owned and operated by her family for over 60 years. Catherine loved people and derived much pleasure from her affiliations and relationships with family, especially her beloved grandchildren. She enjoyed cooking, particularly during the holidays and especially loved her doughnuts and coffee. She loved all animals and feeding the squirrels and birds. She was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Catherine is survived by her daughters and son-in-law, Rita LaBrie of Utica, and Angela Marie and Ronald Pepe of AZ; her grandchildren, George and Emily Pepe, and Michael and Sabrina Pepe, all of AZ, Donnie and Tammy Hadcock, Jr., and Angela Catherine and Aaron Smith, all of Utica; and her great grandchildren, Zachary, Alex, Dylan, Joseph and Ethan Pepe; Makayla and Cody Pepe; Nicholas Hadcock who was near and dear to her heart; and Austin, Joshua, and Kaytlynn Hadcock: and Maranda Bony. Survivors also include her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, including her special cousin, Bella Sfinas of Utica, and her friend, Frances Ficano. She was predeceased by her brother, Rocky Casalere; her sister, Mary Casalere, to whom she was very devoted; her sister, Jane Gardinier; and her canine companion, General. The family is grateful to the staff of the Visiting Nurse Association of Utica and Oneida County, especially Julia Elacqua, and Catherine’s caregiver, April Olsen. Thanks also to Dr. Steven LaGrant and his staff for their sensitivity and professional concern. In keeping with Catherine’s wishes, the family honored and celebrated her life in a private gathering. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Stevens-Swan Humane Society in lieu of floral offerings. Private committal prayers and interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery with Pastor Tim Burns officiating.

Catherine R. (Casalere) LaBrie

August 6, 1916 - October 1, 2010