Gregory J. DeMetri

Mr. Gregory J. DeMetri, age 91, passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his family by his side. Born in Utica on December 15, 1921, Gregory was the son of the late Clotario and Gemma (Gurilli) DeMetri. He was raised and educated locally. At one time, he was married to Mary C. Barile. He was blessed with a second union when he wed the former Antoinette M. Brescia on June 26, 1981; they shared 27 years in a relationship graced with love and respect until her passing on May 13, 2009. For over 50 years, Greg worked as a union painter at the F.G. West Painting & Sandblasting Company. Prior to that, he held a position with the New York Central Railroad. But it was his family for whom he worked the hardest, especially for his cherished grandson Gregg; his smile would light up the room when they were together. A gentle man with a mild manner, he was blessed with a light-hearted humor that brightened the days of family and friends. He enjoyed fishing and gardening, and he lived up to his moniker as Mr. Fix-It even while residing at the Masonic Care Community. He was recognized as being among the first members of the International Union of Painters & Allied Trades District Council # 4. Gregory is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Gregory M. and Karen DeMetri of New Hartford; his grandchildren, Gregg and Olga DeMetri of Houston, Texas; and his step-daughters and son-in-law, Leona and Francis Briggs, and Barbara Ward, all of Utica, and their children, Andrea, William, and Carl. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws Madeline DeMetri, Jerry and Julia Piccione, Eleanor Pendasulo, Elizabeth Barile, Angeline Doane, and Mary Brodowsky; and his longtime friend, Peter Cardone. He was predeceased by his sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary and Primiano “Primo” Pezzolanella, Clara and Joe Papa, Artha and Samuel S. Yacco and Dominick Sica; and his brothers, Anthony DeMetri, Reco DeMetri (who was not only his brother but also his best friend), and Nally DeMetri. The family accords thanks to the nurses and staff of the Manhattan Neighborhood at the Masonic Care Community of NY for the excellent care and compassion shown to Gregory during his stay; and the staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Intensive Care Unit for their professional attention. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Gregory's funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Friday morning at 11:00 at Our Lady of the Rosary Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Felix Colosimo. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Gregory J. DeMetri

December 15, 1921 - September 21, 2013