Mr. Joseph D. Della Gala

Mr. Joseph D. Della Gala, age 93, passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2013 in the comfort and dignity of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on January 29, 1920, Joseph was the son of the late Dionisio and Filomena (Geruntino) Della Gala. Raised and educated locally, he was a 1939 graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Joe honorably served his country as an aviation machinist's First Mate First Class during World War II. He participated in heroic adventures and especially remembered his time stationed in Brazil. On June 25, 1949 he married the former Mildred P. "Millie" Sopo who he held dear for nearly 64 years; they were a devoted couple who enjoyed sharing their lives with one another and faced the future with the fortitude of their generation. Together they were one, never ending in their care of each other on a daily basis. During his working life, Joe was employed by the New York State Department of Labor, division of Safety & Health. He truly loved his work and had an ability to maintain rules and regulations in his mind and his eye with his detailed perception of the most intricate of details. When OSHA was established at a state level, he oversaw many divisions, and through this hard work he was promoted to program manager, retiring in 1984. Joe was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who loved to spend time with and care for his family. Also a world traveler, some of his favorite places included the ocean shores and peaceful beaches that were a gentle, sunny reminder and a proud and fond memory of his time in the Navy. He was an amateur photographer and had a passion for documenting life through pictures of his family and the unforgettable times they spent together. He proudly displayed the pictures throughout his home and also developed them to hand out as endearing gifts for occasions as simple and beautiful as just being a Tuesday. He had a unique sense of humor which was often laced with sarcasm and Joe's witticisms. Memories of these moments will be cherished forever. One of his special accomplishments in life was his family, and he was so proud of each of them and their achievements. He was a politically-minded individual who loved to debate politics and he supported the local political arena. He was an avid reader and amateur painter. He harvested grapevines and made wine and grape products. Joe also enjoyed sports, particularly baseball and his beloved New York Yankees. One of his favorite memories was trying out for a spot on the Yankees, and after a valiant effort, coming up a little short. Saturday morning probably meant Joe was meeting his friends at a local cafe to laugh and reminisce about the old days. The group slowly faded with time as everything we love does, but we find comfort in knowing they are now reunited. He practiced his faith at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. These words found in his high school yearbook, "With ease of mind forever blessed” was the philosophy of his life. Joe is survived by his beloved wife, "Millie", who he often referred to as "Hey Mil!"; his daughters and son-in-law, Phyllis P. and Jerry Leuthauser of Leonardsville, Jodi Miller of Florida, and Denise Gaffney and fiance Patrick Pickard of Mattydale, NY; his grandchildren, Marjorie R. Leuthauser and Jason Cruger, Nolan Leuthauser; Jessica Leo, Anthony and Nicole Leo, Nicole Leo and Karl Paulson, Sarah and Michael DeLosh, Ashley Miller, Joseph M. Miller; Shawn Gaffney, and Alyssa Gaffney; and his great-grandchildren, Niko, Aidan, Dylan, Samantha, Savannah, Luis, and Jadelyn. He will also be missed and remembered by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws Gloria Della Gala, Congetta "Connie" Della Gala, Mary P. Della Gala, Angeline Penge, and Rose and Joseph Colicci. Joe was also blessed with many friendships throughout his life, especially remembering Todd Rooney, and Mary Vetal. He was predeceased by his sisters and brother-in-law, Louise and Anthony Falange, and Isabel "Isabella" Della Gala; his brothers, Enrico A. "Henry" "Chick" Della Gala, Raymond M. Della Gala, Anthony P. "Gellie" Della Gala, and infant Vincent Della Gala; and his in-laws, Marion and Joseph Capozella, and Joseph Sopo. The family will be forever thankful to Dr. Daniel Goodman and his staff for their professional care, Dr. Kevin Mathews for his kind mannerism and humor; Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. for the comfort and needed support rendered to Joe, especially by Crystal, Ann, and Jan who expressed their regard and respect with affection; and Fr. Paul Drobin for his spiritual guidance. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Joseph's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Fr. Joe Salerno. Committal service and Interment with Military Honors will take place graveside at St. Agnes Cemetery.

Mr. Joseph D. Della Gala

January 29, 1920 - April 20, 2013