Gary Fontaine, Retired, Utica Fire Department

Gary Fontaine, Retired, Utica Fire Department, age 57, of Whitesboro, was taken unexpectedly on Thursday, June 18, 2009 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with the love and support of his family. Gary was born in Utica on April 10, 1952, the son of Mario and Monica (Hughes) Fontaine. He was a 1970 graduate of T.R. Proctor High School and he continued his education at Morrisville College. On September 7, 1974, he was united in marriage with the former Paula Castelli with whom he shared 34 years, throughout which they were best friends and soulmates. For many years, Gary was associated with his father and brother, Ron, in running the family business, Fontaine’s Service Station. On August 24, 1981, he was appointed to the Utica Fire Department, earning a promotion to Lieutenant on June 3, 1989, and to Captain on September 12, 1992. His commitment to fire service, his relationship with the brotherhood, and his professional demeanor, earned him the respect of this community. He retired from the fire department in 2002, and also remained active in the family business until that time. His ultimate concern as a parent was to share his wisdom and give his children the best advice he possibly could, which formed the backbone of their life's existence. He worked to accomplish ever-higher goals and he was always ready to serve those he loved, the friends he valued, and his community. Gary was a compassionate man, well loved and respected by everyone who knew him. With his wonderful sense of humor as his stronghold, Gary was continually a source of support and happiness for all. His hobbies included woodworking, camping, boating, and scuba diving; he was a motorcycle enthusiast and an animal lover. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandson, who brought him immeasurable pleasure. Gary is survived by his wife, Paula; his daughter, Kristina Fiorini, and friend, Brian Listovitch of Utica; his son, Gary Fontaine, Jr. of Virginia; his grandson, Michael Fiorini; and his parents, Mario and Monica Fontaine of Utica. Survivors also include his brother and sister-in-law, Ronald M., Sr. and Josette M. Fontaine of Utica; his sister and brother-in-law, Lyn and Larry Oyer of Clifton Park; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Angelo and Anna Castelli of Utica; many devoted nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and in-laws, Mindy and Fred Garner, Dorothy Smothers, and Angela Durrigan. Gary had a solid network of friendships; some which began in his youth and continued to this very day, and all of which he cherished along life's journey. The family wishes to acknowledge the courageous efforts of the Whitesboro Volunteer Fire Department, the Sheriff’s Department, and the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Emergency Room staff. Visitation will be held Sunday (today) from 2:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The family will remain until all visitors have been greeted. Please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Gary’s honor to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, or the Stevens Swan Humane Society; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Gary’s funeral service will commence on Monday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home with full fire department honors and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Gary Fontaine, Retired, Utica Fire Department

April 10, 1952 - June 18, 2009