Mr. Edward M. "Fast Eddie" Cichello

UTICA - Mr. Edward M. “Fast Eddie” Cichello, age 86, reunited with his devoted wife in heaven on Thanksgiving Day, his favorite holiday, November 23, 2023 with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on February 1, 1937, Edward was the son of the late Michael and Ann (Fairbrother) Cichello. He attended Roscoe Conkling Elementary School and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1957. On August 18, 1962 he married the former Marie J. Alberico with whom he shared nearly 55 years in a loving union prior to her passing on August 13, 2017. Ed was employed at the Utica Cutlery as a grinder polisher. To better provide for his family, he also held a position as a bartender and waiter at Twin Ponds, where he was proud of his work and service to the patrons. He often was referred to as “one of the best.” Eddie maintained an old-school mentality and the art of storytelling. He was a hoot, and his Eddie“isms” will always be recalled, like “When you buy something, buy the good stuff.” He was good in the kitchen, even becoming a bit famous for his meatballs. He loved Thanksgiving and all the fixings, especially “his stuffing”. Eddie enjoyed daily coffee and conversation with his friends, frequenting all of the local area coffee shops and diners. In his youth, Eddie was a natural athlete; he vaulted off the diving board with precision, participated in Proctor High School cross-country events, and earned many competitive awards including the New York Shield and the Proctor “P.” In his younger years, Eddie played MUNY League softball for team Color Craft Interiors. The Central Valley Softball Association had just honored him for his 40 years of service as an umpire for the softball league. In his later years, he found the time to referee soccer. He also enjoyed his bowling and golfing leagues with his buddies. On a $50.00 dare, Eddie ran to Sylvan Beach, followed by his friends in a car to make sure he met the challenge… which he did! But above all else, the love of his life was his wife, and the blessing of his daughters and grandchildren of whom he was so proud. He was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where he served as an Usher. Eddie is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Gina and Tom Pfisterer, and Chrissy and Chuck Heath; his grandchildren, Dr. Elena Marie Pfisterer, DVM, Thomas Pfisterer, and Dominick Pfisterer; and in-laws, Elaine and Michael L. Elefante, and Wavel Cichello. Eddie was predeceased by his brother, Joseph R. “Sonny” Cichello. He found a great love and friendship with Philomena Amodio who had a wonderful influence on Eddie’s wellbeing and happiness. Eddie leaves behind many cherished friendships, especially mentioning Danny Wilczek, and Hank Wilczek, who shared a camaraderie with him for over 30 years. His memory will also be cherished by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was additionally predeceased by his infant daughter whom he never forgot, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Dick and Connie Alberico, and his lifelong friend, Phil Torraco. The family is grateful to Dr. Bradley Sklar and Dr. Fred Talarico for their medical care and compassion. Eddie’s family will honor and commemorate his life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Edward’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Eddie’s honor may be made to the Abraham House online at www.theabrahamhouse.org/donate or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at www.stjude.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service. Entombment will take place in Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

Mr. Edward M. "Fast Eddie" Cichello

February 1, 1937 - November 23, 2023