Mr. Christopher A. Grande

Mr. Christopher A. Grande, age 93, formerly of Utica and currently of New Hartford, passed away on Monday, December 12, 2011 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center. Born in Little Falls on May 31, 1918, Christopher was the son of the late Michael and Maria (Nunno) Grande. He was raised and educated locally, a graduate of Utica Free Academy Class of 1936. A member of the Civilian Conservation Corps, Chris later enlisted in the United States Army. A proud veteran of World War II, he and his brothers of the 2nd Division landed in France on D-Day Plus 1 in the European Theater of Operations. For his valorous actions in that campaign, he was a recipient of the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantry Badge. On March 6, 1943 he married the former Mary Convertino with whom he shared 68 years of mutual love and devotion. Chris worked as a foreman at the General Electric Radio Receiver Shipping Department for almost 40 years, providing loyal and conscientious service until his retirement in 1981. He was well respected and trustworthy in both his professional and personal life He adored his wife, children and grandchildren, who were the core of his existence and in return they held the utmost love and devotion for him. A kind and gentle man by nature, Chris was a friend to all. During his leisure time, he enjoyed bowling, and especially golfing at Valley View. He was a member of the Sons of Italy Lodge #2054, and a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Chris is survived by his wife, Mary; his daughters and sons-in-law, Johann and Philip Sbarra, and Mariann and Anthony Spiridigloizzi, all of New Hartford; his son and daughter-in-law, Christopher and Linda Grande of Utica; his grandchildren, Adrienne and Bernard Adorino, Philip, Jr. and Erica Sbarra, Anthony Spiridigloizzi, Jr., Erica and Sam Grande, Salvatore and Michele Grande, Christopher, Jr. and Patricia Grande, Melissa Grande, and Dominick Collicco; and his 12 great-grandchildren. In addition, he leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law Frances Grande of Syracuse, NY. He was predeceased by his sisters, Faye Talerico, and Lucy Motto; and his brothers, John, Rocco, Angelo, and Carl “Mooch” Grande. The gentle care offered by the staff of the Sequoia House at the Charles T. Sitrin Health Care Nursing Home; and the kind and compassionate medical care rendered by the Emergency Medical staff at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center was so meaningful and appreciated. The family will honor and celebrate Christopher’s life in a private gathering. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday at 12:00 noon at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be celebrated by Rev. James Cesta. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. By family request, please refrain from floral offerings. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Christopher A. Grande

May 31, 1918 - December 12, 2011