John B. Grande

Mr. John B. Grande, age 74, formerly of Utica and more recently of Richfield Springs, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 25, 2010 at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on November 10, 1935, John was the son of the late James and Aida (Grande) Grande. He was raised and educated locally. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, he was proud to serve his country as a helicopter mechanic. On June 6, 1959 he married the former Ethel J. "Dot" Goshaw with whom he shared 50 years in a loving union; they treasured the togetherness and blessing of their family life. At one time, John held a position with the General Electric Company/Radio Receiver plant on Bleecker Street until its closing. He then worked for the Utica City School District until his retirement in 1994. Above all else, John cherished the time spent with his family. A patient, giving, young-at-heart, and vivacious patriarch, he was always kind and unconditionally supportive. He was proud of his children and grandchildren, and all their accomplishments. Along with his wife, John enjoyed and was involved in the care and nurturing of the residents of the Welcome Home for Adults in Richfield Springs and took part in the daily operation of the home. He was a former parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church, and currently a communicant of St. Joseph’s Church in Richfield Springs. John is survived by his wife, Ethel; his daughters and sons-in-law, Gina and David Sykes of Frankfort, and Johanna and Dennis Brenon of Utica; and his grandchildren, Nicole Sykes, Derek Sykes, Jenna Sykes, Nicholas Brenon, and Carli Brenon. Survivors also include his sisters, Lois J. Waterman of New Hartford, and A. Joyce Grande of Utica; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, Kenneth “Kenny” Hobin of Utica, and Michael and Beatrice Goshaw of Staten Island; and his special canine companion, Theo. John also leaves behind many close friends and relatives whom he shared very special times with. He was predeceased by his sister, Marilyn Hobin; and his brother-in-law, Gerald F. Waterman. The family is grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Critical Care Unit at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for their care and professionalism; and Dr. Jawad Shaikh for his empathy and concern. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. John’s funeral service will commence on Thursday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Military Honors. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family.

John B. Grande

November 10, 1935 - April 25, 2010