Mr. Donald R. "Don" Paciello

UTICA - Mr. Donald R. “Don” Paciello, age 81, passed away on Tuesday, July 4, 2017 in the dignity and comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on March 1, 1936, Donald was the son of the late Sam and Antoinette (Barbero) Paciello. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran, Don enlisted in the United States Army where he honorably served his country stateside. On August 18, 1956, he married the former Shirley A. Bruno with whom he shared 55 years. They were blessed with love and three great children. Shirley passed away on July 30, 2011. Don was employed by E & F Trucking working on various routes including Griffiss Air Force Base when the company assisted in building the airstrip. In his youth, he was mentored by the late Nick Rivecca who taught him how to install linoleum and carpet, and eventually Don became the owner and operator of Donti’s Installation Company. Over the years, he received referrals from several local businesses and worked with them to serve the community with pride and quality products. In retirement, he worked as a driver with the Utica Transit Authority for 18 years, and lastly, he was a monitor for Birnie Bus Company. Don was blessed with vitality of mind and body. He was independent and social, and “what you see, is what you get”. He was thankful for his family and celebrating holidays and special occasions, and he adored his children and grandchildren. He lived a long, productive life and held true to his values which he instilled in his children. Don enjoyed teaching his grandchildren the ins and outs of playing cards. He enjoyed the entertainment of television programs, including Friday night boxing. He was also a fan of Syracuse basketball, was fond of classic country music, and shared in the sport of hunting with his son and son-in-law. He was a member of the Social Athletic Club and a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Donald is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Donna and Robert Manfredo of New Hartford, and Denise and Larry Roach of Clay, NY; his son and daughter-in-law, Donald S. and Mary Lourdes Paciello of New Hartford; his grandchildren, Robert and Megan, Paul and Shannon; Danielle; Dominick, and Nina; great-grandchildren, Norah, and Jack; and his brother, Raymond “Ray” Paciello of N. Utica. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law, Diana R. Grumboski, and Marie Bruno; and his many loyal friends who Don truly considered as family. He was predeceased by his brothers, Francis Paciello, and Dennis Paciello; and his in-laws, Salvatore J. and Frances Nicolette, Richard V. Grumboski, Jerry D. Bruno, and Laura Paciello. The family is grateful to Dr. Joseph Booth and Caroline for their unwavering extended care and counsel. Visitation will be held Friday from 5:00-8:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of floral offerings please consider memorial donations to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. online at http://www.hospicecareinc.org; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Don’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. Interment will follow graveside at Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Donald R. "Don" Paciello

March 1, 1936 - July 4, 2017