Clara D. (Poccia) LaScala

Mrs. Clara D. (Poccia) LaScala, age 95, passed away on Friday, May 16, 2014, at Mohawk Valley Health Systems at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on November 4, 1918, Clara was the daughter of the late Philip and Mary (Basile) Poccia. She was raised and educated in Utica. She was united in marriage with Salvatore LaScala who passed away on October 12, 2005; they were devoted to one another and shared a great love during their blessed union. Clara was a dedicated homemaker and an exceptional cook. She loved sharing her culinary talents with her family and the neighborhood children. Her kitchen was always open and brimming with her homemade delicacies. Blessed with an artistic gift, she taught her loved ones how to creatively paint, knit, and crochet. Clara held many wonderful memories of summers spent with her family at their camp at Old Forge. Clara is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Louis A. and Deborah M. LaScala of Holland Patent, Phillip and Michele LaScala of New Hartford, and Salvatore LaScala of Utica with whom she resided; her grandchildren, Dawn and Shawn Wheeler, Corinne LaScala, Alissa LaScala, and Lauren LaScala; Phillip LaScala, Mark LaScala; Danielle LaScala, and Robert Carcone; and her great-grandchild, Olivia. She also leaves her brother and sister-in-law, Anthony and June Poccia of Utica; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and brother-in-law, Robert Dellecese. She was predeceased by her brother and sister-in-law, Richard P. “Dick” and Nancy Poccia; and her sister, Dolores Dellecese. The family is grateful to Clara’s “special niece” and caregiver, Judy Poccia, for her loving care and devotion in tending to Clara; and the staff of the Allen Calder Wing, the third floor, and the emergency room staff at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for their compassion and concern. In keeping with her wishes, her family will honor and commemorate Clara’s life in a private gathering and Celebration of Life. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Clara D. (Poccia) LaScala

November 4, 1918 - May 16, 2014