Dorothea "Dottie" (LaPorte) Casatelli-Rogers

Mrs. Dorothea “Dottie” (LaPorte) Casatelli-Rogers, age 74, a native from Utica, and currently residing in Clinton, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with the love and support of her family who were at her side. Dorothea was born in Utica on September 19, 1936, the daughter of the late Louis F. and Teresa M. (Casaletta) LaPorte. She was raised and educated in Utica, and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. During her young adult life, she was married to Louis P. Casatelli, Sr., and gave birth to two children, Louis P. Casatelli, Jr. and Kathleen A. Casatelli, whom she loved unconditionally and without reservation throughout her life. A woman recognized for her extraordinary work ethic and warm outgoing personality, Dottie held a variety of positions during her employment years, including those at New York Telephone Company, the office of Attorney William Schmitt, and Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation. In the mid 1970s, she was wed to Norris Rogers who passed away in the early 1980s. After retirement, Dottie continued working part time with the Utica City School District at Jefferson and T.R. Proctor schools. During the past seventeen years, Dottie enjoyed her life with her loving companion, Casimir “Cas” Pilawa, with whom she resided for many years, and who remained faithfully and lovingly at her side throughout her final hours. Dottie, generous in spirit and an exceptional caregiver, steadfastly faced life’s challenges as they came. She was stylish, genuine, and admired by many. Dottie viewed motherhood as her greatest accomplishment, and modeled herself after her own mother whom she adored. Dottie will always be remembered for her artistic talents, unceasing hospitality, exuberant holiday celebrations, and ability to entertain to perfection in a home that was finely decorated with impeccable style and attention to artistic details. Dottie is survived by her son, Louis P. Casatelli, Jr. of North Utica; her daughter, Kathleen “Kathy” Casatelli, and Jackie Reuben who Dottie loved as a daughter, both of Syracuse; and her loving companion, Casimir “Cas” Pilawa, with whom she truly shared great happiness. Also left to mourn her passing are her sister, Marlene Inserra of Utica; her brothers and sister-in-law, Orazio “Ray” LaPorte of Utica, and George and Laurie LaPorte of Georgia; her aunts, Anne Nicoletta, Carmelita Poccia, and Claire Casaletta; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and her former mother-in-law, Rose Casatelli. Dottie was also blessed with many meaningful friendships, each special and precious to her. She was predeceased by her sister, Eleanor LaPorte; her brother-in-law, Frank Inserra; and her sister-in-law, Helen LaPorte. Dottie’s family members are appreciative of the fine care and attention given by the staff of the ICU at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Dr. Prabhat Varma and his associates, as well as that from her longtime physicians, Dr. Brian Gaffney, and Dr. Timothy LaFont, and the spiritual guidance and prayers offered by Fr. Anthony P. LaFache. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her Celebration of Life and Memorial Mass of Christian Burial which will be held on Saturday morning at 11:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church with Fr. Anthony P. LaFache officiating. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Dorothea "Dottie" (LaPorte) Casatelli-Rogers

September 19, 1936 - July 26, 2011