Fred G. Mazza

Mr. Fred G. Mazza, age 89, of New Hartford, passed away on Friday, December 9, 2011 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and support of his family. Fred was born in Utica on October 19, 1922, the son of the late Giuseppe and Jennie (Graniero) Mazza. Raised and educated locally, he attended T.R. Proctor High School. A proud veteran of the United States Army, he honorably served his country during World War II stationed in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations and the Philippines. After the war, on June 28, 1947 he wed the former Mary C. Postiglione; the couple shared an adoring relationship during their 64-year marriage and Fred considered his wife his “Princess”. An electrician by trade, he was employed by various area contractors; being very creative, ingenious, and adventuresome with his ideas, he invented “a starter” still in use today for disposals which was purchased by Ideas in Science & Electronics, Inc. He next worked for the General Electric Company at the Bleecker St. location, and was proudly affiliated with Burton’s Stove Store where he was the Service Appliance Manager. In the 1950’s he established Fred Mazza Appliance, located in downtown Utica on Charlotte St., as well as Bleecker and South Streets. The family enterprise, humbly led by this hard working individual, then expanded into Fred Mazza World of Appliances, Inc., concurrently operating in three locations, Commercial Drive, Herkimer, and Seneca Turnpike. These business endeavors were family-managed and were the best of times for him. Fred was a playful and fun loving dad yet he was admired by his children as a role model for his parenting abilities. A man of the Greatest Generation, he honored his heritage, provided for his family, and was looked upon as a “gentle giant” because of his generous and kind nature. He also enjoyed winters in Florida where he soaked up the sunshine and warm weather. Fred derived much pleasure from fishing with his grandson, and he was passionate about caring for the interior and exterior of his home. He was a member of Tau Phi Zeta Fraternity, and at one time was involved with the Republican Party and the American Legion Post #1376 in New Hartford. He was a parishioner of St. John the Evangelist Church. Fred is survived by his wife, Mary; his daughter and son-in-law, Marilyn and John Kowalski of Prospect; his sons and daughters-in-law, Fred J. and Dawn Mazza of Floyd, and Gary and Louise Mazza of New Hartford; his grandchildren, Miranda Crossley; Megan Mazza and fiancé Andrew Wilson, Marissa Mazza, and their mother, Rita Grimaldi; Mariel Mazza, Gary H. Mazza, and Jake Mazza; and his great-grandson, Jaden Gray. In addition, he leaves his sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Bren Taylor of FL; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Theresa Zaza, Antoinette Fiore, and Lillian Postiglione. He was also blessed with very wonderful friends and business associates, especially remembering Seymour Greene, Felix Nolan, and Andy Lario. He was predeceased by his brother, Robert G. Mazza; his sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Bill Sarnacki; and his in-laws, Nick A. Postiglione, and Josephine and Joseph Monescalchi. The family extends sincere appreciation to the following health care providers: Dr. Darrell S. Pardi of the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Toby Taylor, Dr. Brian Gaffney and Dr. Samir Desai. The Faxton-St. Luke’s Health Care Center 6th Floor nurses and staff, including Shelly, Olga, Mandy, and Mike as well as the Critical Care Unit staff with special mention Mike, were most conscious of the treasures of life; as well as the angelic volunteers who comforted Fred and his family with such attentiveness and compassion. A joy of light was felt from the staff of the Charles T. Sitrin Home staff for their kindness; and the family was filled with love and faith through the prayers of hope of Fr. Fraats for his prayers and support. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Fred’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday afternoon at 12:00 noon from the funeral home and at 1:00 at St. John the Evangelist Church where his Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be offered by Rev. Joseph Zareski and Msgr. Francis Willenburg. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Fred G. Mazza

October 19, 1922 - December 9, 2011