Mr. John A. Roberta

Mr. John A. Roberta, age 97, passed away on Monday, February 6, 2017 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with the love and support of his family by his side. Born on April 9, 1919, John was the son of the late Pasquale and Mary Grace (Scampone) Roberto. John was a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps stationed in Wyoming where he came to know and love the beauty of that state and the Western way of life. A proud veteran of the United States Army Air Corps, John honorably served his country during World War II as a gunner in the Pacific Theater of Operations. On February 5, 1947 he married the former Linda DiMambro. They were a loving couple and a fine example to their children of what true love is. Linda passed away on May 6, 2011 and last Monday they were reunited —- after what would have been their 70th wedding anniversary. John worked as a self-employed building contractor masterfully constructing many homes in the East side of Utica as well as several notable businesses. As patriarch, he was a fair, loving, and supportive father. His family was the nucleus and he was the fusion that bound them together. His children characterized him as a complete gentleman, unassuming and humble with traits of a generation past, and a ‘great’ one at that. John was a handsome man, well-attired, and tall in stature, attributes that earned him the affectionate appellation of “Big Daddy” by those who loved him. This gracious man was blessed with a good woman by his side who he loved unconditionally. They were unconventional and reserved by nature, but their family life was grand and their home was always open. He was a member of the former Sons of Italy Lodge and the Loyal Order of Moose because he and Linda loved to dance. It is difficult to sum up 97 years of life… but there were so many grand components: loyal siblings, a beautiful wife, respectful children, and the brightest beam of all —his granddaughter, who energized his life. John is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Marilyn A. and Kevin Blaney of Utica; his son and daughter-in-law, John “Jack” and Katie Roberta of Honeoye Falls, NY; his beloved granddaughter, Janene Sansone-Tirado and her husband Phil of New Hartford; and his great-grandchildren, twins Alena Lucinda, and Alex Michael John. He will also be remembered by several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Antoinette and George Pucine; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Victor and Regina Roberto, Anthony and Marion Roberto, a special brother and best friend, Arthur Roberta; and his in-law, “Granny” Lucy DiMambro. The family extends many thanks to the staff of the Mulberry House at the Charles T. Sitrin Home who took great care of John, loved him, and appreciated his fine qualities. In keeping with the family’s desires John’s loved ones will commemorate his life at a future time. Committal services and Interment beside his wife in Calvary Cemetery will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Mr. John A. Roberta

April 9, 1919 - February 6, 2017