John J. Talerico, Sr.

Mr. John J. Talerico, Sr., age 80, of Utica, passed away on Sunday, January 27, 2008 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his family by his side. Born in Utica on January 26, 1928, John was the son of the late John J. and Rose (DeSarro) Talerico. He was raised in Utica and attended local schools. On May 18, 1957 he married the former Helen M. Arent with whom he shared 50 years. A proud U.S. Army veteran, he honored his time in service and always remembered other Veterans’ Administration agencies throughout the years. John was employed by the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier for many years. He pursued several business endeavors including Ridgewood Pizza, Pizza Warehouse with his nephew Mickey Maunz with whom he shared a special relationship, and Raspante Pizza. As an active member of the Sons of Italy Lodge #2054, he was involved with bocce, served as bartender, and assisted in food preparations for the organization. At one time he was an affiliate of the District Commission of the Boy Scouts of America. John is survived by his wife, Helen; his son and daughter-in-law, John J. Jr. and Luanne Talerico of Utica; his daughters and son-in-law, Diane M. (Talerico) and Byron Salmon of Ozark, MO, and Rebecca L. Talerico and Denis Vella of Utica; his grandchildren, John J. III, Jessica and Samantha; Jacob, Joel and Jordan; and Philip, Jr. and Frank; and his great-grandchild, Brooklyn. Survivors also include his brother and sister-in-law, Rick “Gus” and Rita Conte of MA; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Dario A. Monescalchi, Alfred “Bud” Maunz, and Carol Talerico. John was also blessed with many loyal friends. He was predeceased by his sisters, Frances Centolella, Eva Paciello, Carmella “Fay” Cittadino, Margaret Gimelli, Jenny Barber, Josephine Bronga, Angeline Maunz, and his twin sister, Rosemary Monescalchi; and his brothers, Joseph, Albert and Paul. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Kevin B. Mathews, the staff of the St. Elizabeth Family Practice Center at Hobart St., Melissa Collver, as well as the personnel at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center for the kindness expressed over the years whenever they treated John. Visitation will be held Thursday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend John’s Celebration of Life which will commence on Thursday evening at 7:00 immediately upon the conclusion of visitation with Rev. Anthony P. LaFache officiating.

John J. Talerico, Sr.

January 26, 1928 - January 27, 2008