Mr. Dominic A. Massella

Mr. Dominic A. “Danny” Massella, age 81, passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at the Charles T. Sitrin Health Care Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Philadelphia, PA on December 12, 1933, Dominic was the son of the late Angelo Edward and Marie (Inzello) Massella. Raised and educated in Philadelphia, Danny joined the United States Air Force after his high school graduation. As a proud veteran, he honorably served his country during the Korean Conflict. On February 8, 1958 he married the former Marie A. Romanelli and shared with her 53 years; their relationship was bonded by their companionship throughout their life’s journey. His beloved Marie passed away on August 22, 2011. Dominic’s working career as a member of the US Air Force spanned many years until his retirement from service. A loving family man at heart, he provided for his family’s needs and met his commitments to them. He was especially devoted to his granddaughter. He was thoughtful and willing to give a hand or a kind word if needed, and he felt happiness when helping others. In his daughter’s words, her father was a gift from God. A skilled woodworker, Danny enjoyed carpentry and handcrafting wood. He enjoyed trips to Turning Stone and Atlantic City casinos with his wife, and visits to his hometown Philadelphia to see his family. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and the Parkway and West Side Senior Centers. He was a parishioner of Historic Old St. John’s Church. Dominic is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Donna M. and Richard P. Schram of Utica; his grandchildren, Dana (Plado) and David “Zeek” Zito with whom he was awaiting the arrival of his first great-grandchild; and his step-grandchildren, Renee and Rod Potter, and Richard P. Schram, Jr. Always close to his heart was the memory of his granddaughter, Dominique “Monique” Marie Plado, who passed away in 1980. He also leaves his sisters and brothers-in-law, Rita and Joseph Taraska, Jerry and James Payne, and Dolores Masciarelli; and his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, Edward; his sister, Marie; and his brother-in-law, John Masciarelli. The family is grateful to Carol, Dennis, and Christopher Tuttle, Jim Viscusi, and Sally and Jerry Burdick who Dominic considered his extended family. The family would also like to thank the nurses and staff of the Magnolia House at Sitrin Health Care, D & T Transport, the personnel of the St. Luke’s Dialysis Unit, the 3rd Floor staff, the Mohawk Valley Nephrology Associates, and Rev. John Buehler, for all their care and concern. These caring people provided Dominic with inspirational words and kind acts during his final journey. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Dominic’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday afternoon at 1:00 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John Buehler with Military Honors conferred by the US Air Force. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. In lieu of floral offerings, expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Historic Old St. John’s Food Pantry; envelopes will be available at the service. Entombment will take place in Christ Our Savior Mausoleum at Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Dominic A. Massella

December 12, 1933 - January 31, 2015