Mrs. Janice L. (Brezinski) Monescalchi

Mrs. Janice L. (Brezinski) Monescalchi, age 78, was escorted by angels to the Lord in heaven above as she peacefully passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2016, at the Upstate Medical University Hospital with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on September 22, 1938, Janice was the daughter of the late Leo and Angela (Iezzi) Brezinski. She attended Wetmore Elementary School and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1956. You could count on her enthusiasm and involvement for her alma maters’ reunions because she valued the friendships she formed there, fostered over the years, and always held close to her heart. On October 13, 1956, she married Anthony P. Monescalchi with whom she shared nearly 60 years. She had a great love for Anthony and a graceful way of catering to his every need. She loved him… no doubt about it. Her relationship began when she was a young lady and she lived with harmony in her heart and shared an unchallenged friendship with her lifelong partner. Janice began her working life at the New York State Unemployment Office in the Claims Department where her grace and sensitivity found their way to people who were in stressful situations and seeking her professional guidance. All were met with a smile and a respectful desire to help. Janice subsequently accepted a position with the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW)/District Union Local One/Health Care Fund where she worked for 20 years processing members’ claims. She held her work ethic in high regard and was remembered by her administrators and co-workers for her energy and expertise. You could find Janice among those working at the election polls, for once again her heart was in the right place. Janice was a staunch defender of the defenseless, an attribute that was reflected in every facet of her life. Because she did things with love, all her endeavors were performed with perfection, out of goodness, not glory. Her home, like her, was warm and inviting, classy and timeless in appointment. She had a knack for decorating with style, especially for the holidays, and took pride in maintaining her house. She appreciated the beauty of nature and the walkway to her front door was lined with bands of blossoms that welcomed visitors with great friendliness. She loved to have family and friends to dinner and went all out cooking and baking incredible meals and desserts. She opened her heart and hearth to so many for so many years. Her humble, benevolent nature allowed her to see the best in others, and as a mother, she taught this by example. She was mindful of her children’s merits and reminded them to be aware of others’ feelings. As a young mom, she was vibrant and music filled her home as she played with her children in creative ways. Even the neighborhood kids knew of her love. Because Janice and Tony were young grandparents, they loved to babysit and attended all their grandchildren’s events. They counseled them through tough moments in life and their love knew no bounds. They were blessed again when they became great-grandparents. In her younger years, Janice traveled with family and friends to memorable destinations, especially her trips to Italy. She was a frugal shopper and was the quintessential window shopper. Janice loved the outdoors and she so enjoyed visiting her daughter and son-in-law at their camp at Otter Lake where she found a moment to relax, observe woodland wildlife, and take in nature in this little piece of heaven surrounded by the sweet scent of cedar and pine. Her Catholic creed was the center of her life. A lifetime member of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church, she attended Tuesday night Novenas throughout her life and was active when the school was in session. Her priority was to offer the children of that parish the benefit of her warm heart in endless deeds. As a faithful parishioner she volunteered herself in many capacities including the annual feast, fish-fry Fridays, and the basket festival for which she was an instrumental committee member. She was a silent giver and never looked for recognition, due to her love of the Lord. She was involved in the preparation of these events, attended the activities, and consistently joined the clean-up crew. Janice lived a wonderful life that was interwoven with the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They adored her and will keep her memory alive. They are brokenhearted that she had to leave, but they “promised her” they would carry on her traditions and live by the lessons they learned through her love. Janice is survived by her husband, Tony; her children and their loves, Cathy and Anthony “Tony” Nicotera, Dario Monescalchi, Michael J. Monescalchi Sr. and fiancee Tracey Rex, and Carla Costello. Janice put credence in these words of wisdom from her beloved mother-in-law, “Each child is like a finger on your hand; each is different in its own way, but not more important than any of the others.” She also leaves her grandchildren, Marisa and Brett Cardillo, John Nicotera; Michael J. Monescalchi Jr., Anthony P. Monescalchi, and their mother Natalie Monescalchi; and Janice L. Costello. She was also Nonnie to her great-grandchildren, Maggie, and Nicholas Cardillo. She also will be remembered by her in-laws, who have been a great source of love in her life, and she held them in her heart and never forgot them, Dario Monescalchi, Lydia Cofano, and Linda Monescalchi; also left to remember her are her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. She had a host of wonderful, lifelong friends, but she also made new friendships daily. She created a legacy of kindness and loyalty in those she loved, and even though they were numerous, each one was important. She was predeceased by her sister, Beverly A. Brezinski; her son-in-law, Brian Costello; her in-laws, Anthony and Primina Monescalchi, Joseph and Josephine Monescalchi, Albert Monescalchi, infant Annunzio Monescalchi, Rosemary Monescalchi, and Jack Cofano; and her nephew, Anthony Monescalchi. The family extends special gratitude to Dr. Fred Talarico and Pat Rosati/NP, who earned the friendship and respect of Janice who was their longtime patient; Dr. Teresa Gentile who is incredibly kind and a credit to her profession; the staff at Upstate Medical University Hospital/Oncology Unit who were truly compassionate in their care of Janice and her family. Their manner was so comforting and gentle that the family forever will hold them in respect and dignity; Fr. Mark Kaminski, her pastor, whose prayers and visits were of great comfort; and Deacon Bill DiSchiavo, a lifelong friend whom she dearly cherished. Janice’s life will be honored and commemorated at a private time. Relatives and friends respectfully are invited to attend her funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday morning at 11:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Fr. Arthur Krawczenko. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available at the service.

Mrs. Janice L. (Brezinski) Monescalchi

September 22, 1938 - October 8, 2016