Mrs. Jeanette A. (LaPolla) Scalzo

UTICA - Mrs. Jeanette A. (LaPolla) Scalzo, age 80, went towards the light, guided by those waiting for her, on Thursday, June 13, 2019. Her passing occurred peacefully in the comfort of her home with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on May 26, 1939, Jeanette was the daughter of the late John and Angeline (LaNeve) LaPolla. She attended T.R. Proctor High School. On June 2, 1956 she married Salvatore P. “Savie” Scalzo, Jr. with whom she shared 53 years in a union graced with support and respect for one another, a blessing that created a happy, loving home for their family. Savie passed away on November 29, 2009. A devoted homemaker, Jeanette instilled values and integrity to her children. She kept a meticulous home, a trait she taught to her children. Bestowed with the skills of a creative cook and a brilliant baker, she prepared her recipes by taste and never measured ingredients! She honored all the traditions and she loved to be the doting mom. Jeanette leaves a beautiful legacy to the generations that follow. Jeanette was truly unique. She was everyone’s “Non” and “Jeanetty” to her grandchildren. She touched so many lives through her selflessness, kindness, and outgoing personality. She was generous of spirit and heart. She was not controversial and although she had a calm demeanor, she was spry and spirited in conversation. Friday night was “game night” and all her grandchildren gathered to play and enjoy pizza and wings! Christmas was her favorite holiday. It was a time for family to gather together and partake of the Christmas Eve feast of fishes, and the trays of homemade cookies-traditions that her family will strive to carry on. Her family made her most proud and she would say, “My kids are my pride and joy”. Her beloved shih tzu, “Comet” was “her baby” and her great companion. For 23 years, Jeanette battled cancer with dignity and courage. She never complained. Those she loved most were by her side, and she was comforted by their love and physical presence. She trusted in the Lord and faithfully attended Mass at the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. When she could not attend, she viewed the Mass on the Eternal World Television Network. Jeanette is survived by her daughters and their loves, Angela Scalzo Kurgan, Lucy Sokaris, Sabrina A. and David J. Cozza, and Vicki Savini; her grandchildren, Melissa Kurgan and fiancé David Scalise, Michael Kurgan; Samantha and Joshua Austin, (always close to her heart was her grandson-her baby-Todd Cozza, who passed away on November 11, 2018), Paul Cozza and Paul Dewey; Nico Savini; Jason Sokaris, and Arianna Sokaris; and her great-grandchildren, Tyler Kurgan, Jaida Austin, and Giada Cozza. She also leaves her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and special friends, Joanna Gabiger, and John Trapasso. She was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Anna and Frank Melchiorre; brothers and sister-in-law, Joseph Rosato, and Anthony and Dolores LaPolla; and numerous in-laws. The family extends their sincere appreciation to Dr. Atul Butala who was a God-sent caretaker; the 6th floor nurses of MVHS at St. Luke’s Oncology Department for their care and compassion; the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care for their empathy and vigilance; and Kathy Smith, a special and beloved nurse. The family honored and commemorated Jeanette’s life at a private time. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend committal prayers and blessings that will take place at Christ Our Savior Chapel Mausoleum at Calvary Cemetery on Thursday, June 20, 2019 at 1:15 p.m. Inurnment will follow.

Mrs. Jeanette A. (LaPolla) Scalzo

May 26, 1939 - June 13, 2019