Mrs. Eleanor M. (Pandolfo) Visalli

Mrs. Eleanor M. (Pandolfo) Visalli, age 58, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, February 13, 2016 in the comfort of her home. At the time of her passing, she was in the hearts of those she loved the most. Born in Utica on May 29, 1957, Eleanor was the daughter of Gloria R. (Peppenelli) Pandolfo and the late Philip L. Pandolfo. She was a graduate of Utica Catholic Academy/Class of 1975. Eleanor always dreamed of becoming a wife, a mom, and a grandmother. On August 9, 1975, she wed her childhood sweetheart, Robert “Rob” Visalli, and all her dreams came true. For 40 years, they shared a love that was complete, unconditional, and unchanging. As she began to raise her family, Eleanor also embarked on a career in nursing. She attended M.V.C.C., graduating in 1981. She then became a professional Registered Nurse and accepted a position at St. Luke’s Memorial Hospital in the Surgical Med unit. Nursing was her calling, and Pediatrics was her niche, thus Eleanor gravitated to that unit. She was so happy and so connected to her young patients, and providing quality care with compassion was so important to her. But in 1996 at age 39, Eleanor was diagnosed with a rare form of Lung Cancer which attacks non-smokers. Her treatment and recuperation were extensive and precluded her from pursuing her profession which was such an important part of her life. As a matriarch, Eleanor was a wonderful homemaker and mom. What kept this extraordinary lady going was her family. From childhood, she was a kind, compassionate, caring soul, attributes that led her to a fulfilling life of helping so many people in so many ways, as a mender of bodies and a mentor to minds. As a mom, she only wanted her children to be safe and happy, and her wish came true as her children grew to become sincere, steadfast sons who lived up to her standards and shared great bonds and friendships. When her grandchildren were born, Eleanor was present at their births which added a new dimension to her life. She adored each of them because they were an extension of the love she held for her children. In 2003, she graciously took her mom into her home and cared for her with compassion and continual love. She also shared a great closeness with her sister, Maria, as they walked their journey of life. Maria admired her sister’s kindness, goodness and dignity as Eleanor fought her medical battles. Eleanor was her moral compass. Part of her heart will remain with her sister always. Eleanor served as the coordinator of family celebrations, an assignment she took on with delight and excitement. She also embraced everyday events with zest. She was young-at-heart and accommodated all at any given time, unsolicited and graciously. She was fun-loving and expressed her feelings and emotions in singing songs, although not always in tune and sometimes slight of lyrics. And her home was the center of it all! She was a second mom to her son’s friends, and they were welcome to share her home and her heartfelt hospitality. She genuinely loved to do the simplest yet most helpful things for family, friends, and strangers (who became immediate friends). She was intuitive and selfless in her giving, and the likes of this angel would be difficult to duplicate. She raised three compassionate, kind gentlemen and that was her greatest accomplishment. Being among those she loved was what she loved the best in life. She honored her civic and social responsibilities, matters of the heart, helping those in need, and engaging in friendships with her whole being. A true believer, her Catholic faith was a great comfort to her and sustained her during her illness. A communicant of Historic Old St. John’s Church, Eleanor was drawn to this parish and its mission that paralleled her personal and moral convictions. Her prayers were genuine; her petitions were humble. All were offered up to the will of God. Eleanor is survived by her husband and true love, Rob; her sons and their wives, Phil and Alaina Visalli, Christopher and Melissa Visalli, and Nicholas Visalli; her beloved mother, Gloria; her adored grandchildren, Bennett Raymond Visalli, and Violet Grace Visalli; and her sister, Maria Pandolfo and her husband Stan Siuta. Her extended family includes her nephew, Dr. Ken Visalli, Jr. and his wife Noel, along with their children Tino and LuLu: and her niece, Amanda Visalli, who was also her godchild and enjoyed so many wonderful times together. She also leaves many cousins; many godchildren; and her brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law, Ken and Janet Visalli, and Wayne Visalli. She was blessed with amazing friendships with Julie and Bob Zaykoski, Diane and Pat Mullally, and Joe Rebisz, among many, many other close friends. When we are blessed to be related to a person, we are honored, but the love that Eleanor shared with her sister-in-law, Janet, was the love of a kindred spirit. The family is grateful to Dr. Jerry Sloan, an incredible physician, friend, and confidant, as well as his highly capable staff; and Rev. John Buehler and Sister Sharon who shared friendship and faith in God’s merciful love. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The family will remain until all visitors have been greeted. Those wishing to express an act of kindness may make a contribution to the Historic Old St. John’s Food Pantry; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Eleanor’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Wednesday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home and 10:30 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John Buehler.

Mrs. Eleanor M. (Pandolfo) Visalli

May 29, 1957 - February 13, 2016