Mr. Francesco M. Bilotta

Mr. Francesco M. “Frank” Bilotta, age 100, passed away on Saturday, November 28, 2015 in the comfort of his home. Born on December 7, 1914, in the town of Cortale in the province of Catanzaro in the Calabria region of Italy, Francesco was the son of the late Dominico and Ippolita (Saraceno) Bilotta. He proudly served as a member of the Italian Army. On February 2, 1947, in Italy, he married the former Francesca Nicotera. They were truly in love with each other during their 64 year union, a marriage of their era. In 1955 they emigrated to the United States and settled in Utica. Francesca passed away on May 13, 2011. Frank was employed by the Gold Medal Dairy Company as a dairy worker, where his good work ethic and diligence made for a family like relationship. He retired in 1979. A very simple man, his needs were minimal. He loved seeds, soil, and sowing a garden; he was renowned for his fruitful fig trees. Frank practiced the old-world traditions of making wine and homemade sausage which he passed down to his son-in-law and the next generation. In fact, his philosophy was, “If you couldn’t eat it, you shouldn’t be tending to it”. His greatest accomplishment in life was his family, especially his grandchildren, as well as a home that he built and maintained until his last days. He practiced his Catholic faith as a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. In looking back on Frank’s life, we clearly see that it was his faith, his family, and his foundation in a traditional Italian lifestyle that forged a wonderful legacy, and a full and fruitful life for him and his loved ones. His smile will never be forgotten. Frank is survived by his devoted family, Paula and Al Passante of Vernon, and Sandra Postal with whom he shared a home; his grandchildren, Jason Passante and Danielle Robidoux, Jennifer and Mark Lundquist, Alison and Jason Brown, Nicole Passante; Lisa Barrett, and Erica Postal; his great-grandchildren, Madison Passante, Trey, and Reese Lundquist, Julian Brown; Johnny Postal, and Isabella, and Silvanna Barrett. He will also be remembered by his brother, Pasquale Bilotta of Italy; and his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, all residing in Italy, with special mention of his nephew Piero Bilotta. He was predeceased by 6 brothers and 2 sisters, all of Italy. The family is grateful to Nurse Practitioner Sally O’Callaghan who lifted Frank’s spirit and garnered his trust; the personnel of the Utica Fire Department and the Rescue 1 team for their outstanding response; and the 911 Operator who acted so quickly and professionally. Visitation will be held Saturday from 11:00-12:00 noon at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Francesco’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday afternoon at 12:00noon from the funeral homeand 1:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Francesco M. Bilotta

December 7, 1914 - November 28, 2015