Enrico A. "Henry" "Chick" DellaGala

Mr. Enrico A. “Henry” “Chick” Della Gala, age 89, of Utica, passed away on Wednesday, November 9, 2011 in the comfort and privacy of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on Christmas Eve 1921, Enrico was the son of the late Dionisio and Filomena (Geruntino) Della Gala. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School Class of 1941. A member of the Greatest Generation and a veteran of World War II, he honorably served his country from 1942-1946 as a 1st Sergeant in the United States Army stationed in the U.S., France, and Germany as a member of the 398th regiment of the 100th Infantry, 1st Battalion. He was a recipient of a Bronze Star Medal for heroic service, a Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. On June 12, 1948, he married the former Gloria R. Andrello with whom he shared 63 years in a loving relationship of heart and soul. Henry was a retired Fire Captain of the Utica Fire Department. He began his career in 1951 and retired in August of 1978 after serving as Captain at Station #8, Central Station #13, and Station #3 on Mohawk Street. His strong leadership and administrative skills led him to success in supervising fire station personnel and maintaining the safety of the community and fellow firefighters. Above all, Henry was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved his girls, spoiled his grandchildren, and cherished time spent with his great-grandchildren that followed. Visits to the arcade, shopping for toys at the mall, Sunday walks to Belvedere’s, watching barges at the Lock 20 State Canal Park, and rides in his convertible were a few of the many adventures he shared with them. During his spare time he collected coins and plied his avocation as photographer for family events. He was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Poppa Chick left a legacy of love and fond memories that will live on in the generations of his life. Henry is survived by his wife, Gloria; his daughters and son-in-law, Estelle Caruso of New Hartford, and Denise and James McAleer of Sauquoit. He cherished the memory of his beloved son-in-law, Ernie Caruso, who passed away on May 6, 2010. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Stephen and Stacy Caruso of New Hartford, David and Kristy Caruso, and Timothy McAleer, all of Sauquoit, and Elizabeth McAleer of Astoria; and his great-grandchildren, Rebecca, Michael, Devin, and Casey. Also left to mourn him are his brothers and sisters-in-law, Joseph and Mildred “Millie” Della Gala, and Raymond and Connie Della Gala, all of Utica; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law, Mary P. Della Gala. He was predeceased by his sisters, Isabel “Isabella” Della Gala, and Louisa Falange; his brother, Anthony P. “Gellie” Della Gala; and his in-laws, Frank and Marian Andrello, and Anthony J. “Tony” and Louise Andrello. The family will honor and commemorate Henry’s life at a visitation on Monday from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon at the funeral home. By request, please refrain from floral offerings. Entombment will take place privately in Calvary Mausoleum.

Enrico A. "Henry" "Chick" DellaGala

December 24, 1921 - November 9, 2011