Mr. Giuliano R. DeSantis, Sr.

UTICA – Mr. Giuliano R. DeSantis, Sr., age 77, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 12, 2025, in the comfort and dignity of his home. Born in Priverno, Italy, on August 27, 1947, Giuliano was the son of the late Arduino and Carolina (Toti) DeSantis. As a young boy, he relocated with his family to the United States and settled in Utica, where he had since resided. He was a proud U.S. Army veteran who served as a drill sergeant. At one time, Giuliano was wed to the former Toni Welker, and from that union came the blessing of their three children, Giuliano Jr, Paul, and Marcella. Later, he married the former Thalia Conte, and together they welcomed their son, Antonio, into their family. Giuliano shared a close bond with his sister, Nancy, who passed away in 2004. His family would like to acknowledge how important she was to him. There are many stories of Nancy taking him under her wing as a second mother. Giuliano became a well-known and beloved figure in the Utica community. Many people will remember his outgoing personality behind the meat counter at Chanatry’s Supermarket located on Albany Street. In his role as a meat cutter, he formed many long-standing friendships with those he served. Later, he worked in asbestos removal until his retirement. Selfless and generous of heart, Giuliano was always willing to give of himself. Whatever someone needed, if he had it, he would share it. Loving toward all, he never met a stranger! His friends will never forget his cheerful way of answering the phone with his signature, “Yello!” Giuliano was a proud member of the UFCW, Local One. Few things excited him more than the thrill of horse racing. He could often be found at Vernon Downs or OTB, cheering on his favorite horse. His love of sports didn’t end at the track—he was also an avid fan of New York’s own Knicks, Yankees, and Giants. In addition, he had a special fondness for Chevy Corvettes. Giuliano is survived by his children, Giuliano DeSantis, Jr., Paul DeSantis and Cathleen Yanco, Marcella DeSantis, and Antonio DeSantis; grandchildren, Giana, Dominic, Gianfranco, Giovanni, and Michael Anthony; and siblings and their spouses, Fresia “Christina” Placanica (the late Nicola “Nick” Placanica), Silvio DeSantis (the late Vittoria DeSantis), and Antonio and Rosalie DeSantis. He fondly remembered his siblings and their loves who preceded him, infant boy, Duilio, Maria and Mariano DeSantis, Angelina “Angela” and Armando Toti, Nancy and Francis L. “Butch” Chandler, Anetta “Anna” DeSantis, and Guiseppina “Pina” and Angelo Cacciotti. He further leaves to cherish his memory many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great nephews, cousins; and lifelong friends, Freddy Greer, Rocco and Suzanne DiPierro, Gary “Ducky” Talerico, and Larry Hammill. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Giuliano’s nephew, Antonio DeSantis, Jr., for always being there for him over the past year and for lovingly looking out for his uncle. In keeping with Giuliano’s wishes, there will be no public services. His family will honor and commemorate his life privately. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Giuliano R. DeSantis, Sr.

August 27, 1947 - May 12, 2025