Mr. Joseph S. Ferro

Mr. Joseph S. Ferro, age 93, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and support of his family. Joe was born in Utica on March 19, 1919, the son of the late Gerald and Rosa (Montana) Ferro. Raised and educated locally, he furthered his studies at the Utica Trade School which introduced him to his lifetime profession. A proud veteran of the United States Army, he honorably served his country during World War II in the 542nd Battalion stationed in Central Europe and the Rhineland. In 1940 in Utica, Joe was introduced to Marie L. Tantillo at the St. Rosalia Feast. They courted for a year and were married on November 29, 1941. As a couple, they were truly compatible and inseparable, and during their 70-year marriage they shared daily responsibilities and life’s goals. Joe was primarily a roofer by trade, and his entire career was with the Pulver Roofing Company. He was knowledgeable, honest, and steadfast at his work endeavors. Joe’s second endeavor was with New York State where he worked with the Green Thumb Environmental Program which gave him the opportunity to be social and active on a daily basis. His family was always his primary concern. He was a soft-spoken, dependable Dad, always supportive and attentive and blessed with a kind heart. His greatest happiness in life was derived from his position as the patriarch of the family that he loved so dearly. He tended to his vegetable garden with much pride. Joe was a passionate woodworker talented in making ‘hand made’ gifts in his own style and proudly presented these to those he loved. Many have these treasured creations that they still use daily. He will be remembered as someone who could “MacGyver” anything, as he was a man of great resourcefulness roaming about the house. During his more active years, Joe’s interests included league bowling with his wife, bocce, bingo, jaunts to Atlantic City and yearly trips. As a couple, they were very active members of the Sons of Italy Lodge #2054, the Loyal Order of Moose, and the American Legion Ft. Schuyler Post. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Joe is survived by his wife, Marie; his son and daughter-in-law, Joseph A. and Cindy Ferro of Florida; his daughters and son-in-law, Rose Marie and Richard T. Maline of Utica, and Carol Lee Ferro who has always been his angel and caretaker. Always close to his heart were the memories of his infant children, Geraldine and Gerard. Joe and Marie were also blessed with the love and respect of an ‘additional daughter’, Gina Marie Mezza, who they truly loved. He also leaves his grandchildren, Joseph A. and Misty Ferro, Regina Ferro Vliegenthart and her husband Donald, Patricia and Russell Hobby, Jessica Ferro and Cari Austin; Richard and Holly Maline and Mark & Lisa Maline; and his great-grandchildren, Alexandria, Victoria, Joseph, and Olivia; Brandon, Micah, Zane, and Anne; Jacob and Zachary; Dana, Connor, Cameron, and always remembering Aaron Cole who passed away on February 14, 2003; and Brendon and Justin. His extended family includes his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and the many wonderful friends with whom he was blessed throughout his life. He was predeceased by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Rocco L. and Susan Ferro, Benjamin and Philomena Ferro, Anthony J. and Laurina Ferro, Lewis A. and Marguerite “Marge” Ferro, Gerald J. Ferro, and Frank and Marge Ferro; and his in-laws, Samuel T. and Deeny Tantillo. The family sends heartfelt thanks to the personnel of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center 1st and 2nd floors of the Allen Calder Wing for their compassionate care. A note of sincere appreciation to Melissa and Kelly who tended to Joe and Marie at their home with much dedication and affection; thanks also to Dr. Gunnar Anderson and Dr. Scott Brehaut whose attention to detail and professional advice was exceptional and sincere. Visitation will be held on Friday afternoon from 3:45-4:45 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave., Utica. Additionally, the family will continue to receive visitors at the conclusion of the Mass. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Joseph’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday afternoon at 5:00 at the church where his Mass of Christian Burial and committal prayers will be offered. Military Honors will be conferred by the Military Forces Honor Guard. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Joseph S. Ferro

March 19, 1919 - May 22, 2012