Mr. Dominick J. "Cousin Dicky" "Dickie" Angelillo

E. UTICA – Mr. Dominick J. “Cousin Dicky” “Dickie” Angelillo, age 97, was reunited with his beloved wife and daughter on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, when he was called home to the Lord. Until just a few months ago, he was proudly living independently – still exercising and driving daily! Born in Utica on June 27, 1927, Dominick was the son of the late Vito and Filomena “Mamie” (Pisano) Angelillo. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II and was honorably discharged in May of 1946. On October 29, 1949, in St. Agnes Church, Dominick wed the former Mary D. Vilardi. Their marriage was filled with mutual love and respect for one another. From this union came the blessing of their only daughter, Marguerite P. Angelillo, who preceded them on March 18, 1997. Dominick and Mary shared over 59 years together prior to Mary’s passing on April 24, 2009. He made it a priority to keep the memory of his wife and daughter alive, frequently sharing stories about them and visiting their place of rest every single day. It brought comfort to his heart knowing that one day they would all be together again. Dominick worked construction as a Gradall operator for over 40 years. He then worked for Rig All until his retirement at age 72. Dominick was persistent and demanding in the most endearing way, such as showing up to unscheduled doctors’ appointments, waiting to be seen. When he started a project, he tirelessly saw it through to completion and perfection. A man who didn’t go back on his word, he was also stubborn in his ways. His family and friends always knew they were loved by him, and the feeling was mutual. He held a special place in his heart for the younger generation, who adored him in return. Above all, Dominick will be remembered as a poetic complainer with a good heart, and a true blessing to all who knew him. Dominick was a member of the Operating Engineers Local #545 for nearly 70 years. He took great pride tending to his family responsibilities, as well as the flower and vegetable gardens around his home. Dominick was delighted to attend every family gathering that he was able to, from weddings to backyard barbecues, and cherished those moments deeply. An automotive enthusiast, Dominick took exceptional care of each vehicle he owned, treating them with the same dedication he showed in all areas of his life. A devoted Catholic, Dominick was a faithful parishioner of St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church. In his final moments, he was deeply grateful to receive a blessing from Father Sean Patrick O’Brien, who offered him comfort and told him it was okay to begin his journey home to Heaven. Dominick cherished the memory of his sister who preceded him, Marie “Mary” Angelillo. He is survived by his cousins who became his second family, Frances “Missy” and Ralph Lucia (his buddy and “son he never had”), Dr. Amie Lucia and Matthew Carr, Carrie and Russell Tinker, Sarah and Justin Parker, Annalise, and Jude Carr, Juliet, and Lia Tinker, and Frankie Jane Parker, John and Josephine Giacovelli, Michael and AnneMarie Ambrose, and Joanne Ambrose. Frances “Missy” and Ralph provided Dominick with a sense of belonging and a new lease on life, which was felt mutually. He further leaves to cherish his memory his close friends and neighbors, Carmella Gallimo, and Susan Guido. He was additionally predeceased by his special first cousin, Francis Giacovelli. The pair had been friends since birth and even served in the war together. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Utica Fire Department and paramedics for their care and devotion to Dominick’s needs; his lifelong physician, Dr. Dilip Kachare and his wife; and Dr. Gould of Slocum Dickson and his staff. They are especially grateful to everyone at Rome Health Hospital for the attention and comfort provided to Dominick. From the doctors, nurses, nursing assistants, even to maintenance, dining staff, and housekeeping, he made many new friends in his final days. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Dominick’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. Military Honors will be conferred by the U.S. Army. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. For those unable to attend, you may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89973697629. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Dominick’s honor may be made to the American Cancer Society online at www.cancer.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service. Entombment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Dominick J. "Cousin Dicky" "Dickie" Angelillo

June 27, 1927 - April 9, 2025