John A. Montaldo

Mr. John A. Montaldo, age 91, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 1, 2013 at The Pines at Utica. Born in Utica on June 4, 1922, John was the son of the late Benjamin and Virginia (Zollo) Montaldo. Raised and educated in Utica, he graduated from T.R. Proctor High School. A proud veteran of the United States Army, he honorably served his country during World War II. On February 7, 1953 he married the former Ann Panaro; they were true companions through their 56 years together, sharing a life filled with mutual love and respect. His beloved Ann passed away on April 30, 2009. John was the founder and former owner of the landmark East Utica establishment, Montaldo’s Line-Up & Repair Garage still located on Rutger Street. An excellent mechanic and problem solver, John serviced many makes and models of automobiles for generations of families in the Utica area. He was an astute businessman with an honest and fair reputation that was well-earned. At home, he was a loving husband and uncle and his family will often think of his ‘early to bed, early to rise’ mantra, and especially his Tuesday road trips to the Casino. With a generous capacity to love, he was like a second father to his nieces and nephews. He pursued daily health and fitness techniques long before it was popular to do so. He had a penchant for solving crossword puzzles and a fast and accurate proficiency in math. He also spoke Italian fluently. John’s Catholic faith figured largely in his life and he was a lifelong parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. John is survived by his nieces and nephews and their families: Maryann Collea of Utica, Virginia "Ginny" and Anthony Muccari of Montgomery, NY, Roseann Nachtical, Susan Kelly, Joe Convertino, Sr., John Convertino, and David Panaro; his great-nieces and great-nephews; and his great-great-nieces and nephews. He will also be missed by his good friend and neighbor, Josephine Rocco. He was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Anna M. and Anthony R. Iacovella; and his nephew, Frank Collea. The family extends appreciation to the 2nd Floor staff at the The Pines at Utica for the comfort and care provided to John during his stay. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Abe Esper. Military Honors will be conferred, and the family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in lieu of flowers may make a contribution to the St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish Memorial Fund; envelopes will be available at the service. Entombment will take place in Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum at Holy Trinity Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

John A. Montaldo

June 4, 1922 - September 1, 2013