Henry R. "Hank" DiPerna

Mr. Henry R. “Hank” DiPerna, Sr., age 77, passed away on Saturday, January 11, 2014 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and devotion of his family by his side. Born in Utica on April 7, 1936, Hank was the son of the late Philip F. and Theresa (Giglio) DiPerna. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. A veteran of the United States Army, Hank honorably served his country stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict. On August 2, 1956 he married the former Beverly Musa; they loved and relied upon one another throughout their 57-year union. Hank was employed by the General Electric Company at the Kent Street Plant. He subsequently worked as a foreman at the San-Bro Meat Packing Co., for many years. Hank was a generous, kind-hearted man, the finest of his many attributes. Quiet and soft-spoken, he was a good, trustworthy friend. Blessed with a serene spirit and gentle soul, he was honest and devoted to his family and friends. Hank was a pal and patriarch to his children and grandchildren who won his heart. He played a special part in their lives, avidly supporting their activities and sporting events. Hank worked out at the gym for many years which was one of his daily rituals; another being a timely member of the “joint”, where he socialized and spent time with his pals. Hank is survived by his wife, Bev; his children and their spouses, Hank DiPerna, Jr. and Rhonda Curtis of FL, Melanie DiPerna-Cortese of Liverpool, Jeannine and Joe Johnson of Utica, and Philip and Darlene DiPerna of Sauquoit; his grandchildren, Joe DiPerna, and Arianna; Jenna Cortese, and Alex Cortese; Joe Johnson, and Michael Johnson; Philip DiPerna Jr., and Jordan DiPerna; and his great-grandchild, Haley Rose, and he was joyfully anticipating the birth of his 2nd great-grandchild. Also left to mourn his passing are his twin brother, Philip J. DiPerna of Utica; his sister and brother-in-law, Lorraine and Mike Yozzo of Baldwinsville; several nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and Aunt Connie. He was blessed with many friends who were dear to his heart, with special mention of the loyalty of Mouse and Patty Olivadoti, and Gazzy Gazzel. He was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Florence D. and Henry Testa, Jr.; his sister-in-law, Shirley A. DiPerna; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Dominick and Tillie Musa; his godchild, Joey Olivadoti; and his special friend, Tony Rocco. The family is grateful to the staff of the Critical Care Unit at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for their outstanding and compassionate care, especially Darlene, Joe, Mary, and Kelly, as well as those of the ICO Unit; and the personnel at the Masonic Care Community of NY – all these wonderful people touched the lives of the DiPerna family in ways that will not be forgotten. It was through Hank’s illness that he was supported and remembered by Mary Lourdes Summa and Carissa, Carol and Al Owens and family, Juliette Giovinazzo, Josephine Rocco and family, and Rose Nelson and family. Visitation will be held Tuesday (today) 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. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Henry’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday morning at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta.

Henry R. "Hank" DiPerna

April 7, 1936 - January 11, 2014