Frances M. (Lupino) Grabski

Mrs. Frances M. (Lupino) Grabski, age 92, of Utica, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 29, 2012 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with the love and support of her family. Born in Utica on November 19, 1919, Frances was the daughter of the late Anthony and Maria (Condo) Lupino. She was raised and educated locally. On July 7, 1945, she wed John Grabski with whom she shared 34 years prior to his passing on January 12, 1980; the couple was blessed with a marriage filled with love, respect, and many fond memories. During her working life, Frances was employed by Savage Arms, Chicago Pneumatic, and the General Electric Company where she worked on the line and as a Radio Tester. Frances was a benevolent woman whose first concern was the well-being of her family. She absolutely adored her grandchildren and was there for all their school activities and concerts. She was generous with her time and brought love to those who knew her. She also had a sunny and spirited sense of humor and was vigilant in remembering everyone’s birthday. She was well-prepared for the family tradition of gathering for Sunday dinner, complete with her famous homemade anise toast cookies, and her light and fluffy sponge cakes for all the birthdays she loved to celebrate. She also enjoyed solving crossword puzzles and crocheting. She lovingly created beautiful blankets for every baby that was born into the family. Frances was eclectic in her musical repertoire, but her greatest appreciation and pride was derived from watching and listening to the musical talents of her family and grandchildren who are prominent performers, professional instrumentalists, and members of the iconic “La Banda Rossa” (Red Band) and the much-acclaimed contemporary band, Holidaye, entertaining audiences with a wide range of dancing and listening music. Frances was devoted to her Catholic creed and was a communicant of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. She spent countless years in the Altar-Rosary Society of St. Anthony’s taking care of the altar and ceremonial cloths and vestments. She served the church by conducting the rosary for members of the church and attending daily Mass. She was a loyal friend to all, including the many ladies she would assist with everyday chores and errands, driving them to doctor’s appointments, and shopping for them. She relished her many trips with the ladies of St. Anthony’s and was there inspiring them to recite the rosary while on the road. She was honored to be often called upon to say special prayers for loved ones and friends. Frances is survived by her son, John F. Grabski; her daughters and son-in-law, Marie Elefante, and Elaine and Al Galime, all of Utica; her grandchildren, David and Anjana Elefante, Marc and Cheri Elefante, Michael and Jody Galime, Richard and Mary Galime, and Julia Galime; and her great-grandchildren, Arianna Elefante, Armand Elefante, Victoria Elefante, Grace Elefante, and Lena Galime. In addition, she leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, sister in law Alice Zyskowski of Utica, special friends the Ray and Grace Durso family, caretaker Liz, and Deacon Billy and her many dear friends from St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. She was pre-deceased by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Rose M. and Michael D. Calenzo, and Carmella and James Famolaro; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Augustine and Anna Lupino, Fred and Harriet Lupino, and John and Frances Lupino; and her in-laws Chester, Edward, Stanley, and Walter Grabski, Helen Spagnuolo, Stella Janicki, and Mary F. Grabski. The family is grateful to the nurses and staff of the 3rd and 4th Floors of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center; friends and staff at Sitrin Daycare who will deeply miss Frances. Their professionalism and support will not be forgotten. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be considered to St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Frances’ funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Wednesday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno. Entombment will take place in Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

Frances M. (Lupino) Grabski

November 19, 1919 - September 29, 2012