Elvira "Vera" (Migliaccio) Heinrich

Mrs. Elvira M. “Vera” (Migliaccio) Heinrich, age 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at Mohawk Valley Health Systems at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on January 16, 1928, Elvira was the daughter of the late Pasquale and Palma (DiNapoli) Migliaccio. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School and furthered her education at M.V.C.C. where she received a degree in Nursing. On April 12, 1969 she married Albert F. “Al” Heinrich with whom she shared 45 years in a union filled with love, respect, and many good times. Vera worked as a nurse at the Walcott House on the campus of the New York State Psychiatric Center for many years until her retirement. Generous with her time and talent, the highlight of her career was the administration’s recognition of her efforts to improve the quality of life of her patients. She also enhanced her professional skills by attending Michigan University. Whether among co-workers, family, or friends, Vera was charitable, friendly, and warm-hearted. Most importantly, she loved unconditionally and adored the attention and respect she garnered from her children and grandchildren. As a connoisseur in the kitchen, Vera cooked and baked traditional festive fare for the holidays, always catering to each person’s wishes. She looked forward to summers at the family camp at Golden Marina on Lake Ontario where she enjoyed glorious sunsets and loyal friendships, especially with Betsy. She was also a voracious reader. Sustained by a strong faith, she recited the rosary, offering her prayers for family members. She sang in the choir at her home parish, St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Church at its inception, and she also found peace and entertainment in singing her favorite songs. She was also active in the Catholic community at the Church of the Annunciation in Clark Mills. Vera is survived by her husband, Al; her daughter Filomena Centolella; and her son and daughter-in-law, Ralph III and Maria Centolella, all of Utica. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Sam, and Danielle Centolella; and David, and John Talerico; and several great-grandchildren. Her extended family includes her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, especially Mary Gasek, and in-laws and her friend Betsy from camp. She will also be missed by her constant canine companion, Chloe. She was predeceased by her siblings and their spouses, Anthony and Theresa Migliaccio, Michael and Kathleen Migliaccio, Anne and Ralph Rabice, and Louis and Faye Migliaccio. The family extends their gratitude to the entire staff at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, and the personnel of Acacia Home Care, especially Grace, for the comfort, kindness, and respect they lovingly offered to Vera. Visitation will be held Friday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Elvira’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Kevin Bunger. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Elvira "Vera" (Migliaccio) Heinrich

January 16, 1928 - June 24, 2014