Mr. Joseph J. "Joe" Bouse

Mr. Joseph J. “Joe” Bouse, age 79, of Utica, passed away on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on November 17, 1930, Joseph was the son of the late Joseph and Marie (Charles) Bouse. He was raised and educated locally and attended T. R. Proctor High School where he excelled as a track star. On November 22, 1986 he married the former Grace DeFazio with whom he shared 23 happy years in a special relationship founded on love and respect. Joe worked as a patrolman and security management professional in a variety of capacities including the Utica Police Department, the Boston Store, J.C. Penney, the Department of Public Works, the Municipal Housing Authority, and the Munson Williams Proctor Institute. Joe was a man dedicated to his family whose vibrant personality enriched all the lives he touched. He was sincere and outgoing, a diplomatic man who offered support and advice to anyone in need. In the world of politics, he was a hard-working Democratic candidate inspired by his civic ideas as a concerned citizen. He currently served on the Board of Directors of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Guild. In the sports arena, along with being an avid NY Giants fan, Joe also excelled as an amateur boxer and a professional umpire! He enjoyed his Saturday breakfast gatherings with his buddies, and he will be remembered by his friends and loved ones as a man of ‘many strengths’. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Affectionately known to his loved ones as Uncle Joe Bouse, Joe will be missed by his devoted wife, Grace; beloved Shetland Sheepdog, Taco; his mother-in-law, Flora DeFazio of Utica; his in-laws, Carol Ritchie of Utica, Esther Rindenello of Marcy, and Joseph DeFazio and fiancée Sharon Carney of Oriskany Falls. He also leaves aunts, uncles, cousins, many nieces and nephews, with special mention of John and Michelle Bouse, Paul Rindenello and fiancée Sara Lear, godson Michael Rindenello, John Matthew Ritchie, and Bianca and Bella DeFazio; and his special cousin and goddaughter, Paula Jones. Joe was blessed with true friends, including Steve (who was like a brother to Joe) and Roberta Schiavi; and his Saturday morning breakfast buddies, Pat Capraro, and Sal Vanno. He was predeceased by his brother, Ronald Bouse; his father-in-law, Carl DeFazio; his sister-in-law, Irene DeFazio; and his great-nephew, John Bouse. The family extends sincere appreciation to the staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center and Joe’s primary caregivers, especially his sister-in-law, Carol Ritchie, who was always by his side. Special gratitude is also offered to longtime friends, Sister Rose Vincent and Sister Johanna. Father Anthony LaFache has not only been of great comfort and spiritual guidance, he has always been there for the family in a time of need. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Joe’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Joseph J. "Joe" Bouse

November 17, 1930 - August 14, 2010