Joseph A. "Joe" Rubino Jr.

Mr. Joseph A. "Joe" Rubino, Jr., age 82, of Utica, passed away on Friday, October 26, 2012 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center. At his passing, he knew the devotion of his sons who were by his side, as he was reunited with the love of his life, Mimi, his wife of 54 years and whose passing left him brokenhearted. Born in Utica on July 4, 1930, Joseph was the son of the late Joseph and Brigida "Bridget" (Conte) Rubino. Raised and educated locally, he attended Utica Free Academy. Being a member of The Greatest Generation, Joe was instilled with a tremendous work ethic at a young age while he worked summers in the bean field providing for his family. With deep pride in his country, Joe enlisted in the United States Air Force in December of 1950 and honorably served his country during the Korean Conflict as an Air Drop Supply man. On October 16, 1957 he married the former Miriam P. "Mimi" Feldman who passed away on June 4, 2012; they shared in a union of great support and devotion to each other. Upon completion of his active military duty in 1955, Joe continued to serve his country as a civilian employee of the United States Air Force at the Griffiss Air Force Base in procurement. After 27 years of dedicated work, he retired on March 30, 1979. He then held employment at Sears Roebuck & Company in the men's clothing department, a position he enjoyed. Joe was a quiet, reserved gentle man, and as patriarch, his priority was his family. He was an excellent provider who ensured the well-being and the physical, emotional, and educational growth of his children. He supported their athletic endeavors and was an active father, friend, and coach. He was an exemplary family man who made certain that everyday opportunities were lived to the fullest. His children will always remember their family vacations, especially at the Air Force Training Base in Colorado. Joe took pleasure in dining at his favorite restaurants including Delmonico's, Symeon's, and Bella Cucina and the tradition of going out on special family occasions. During the holidays and Christmas Eve with the traditional "7 fish" feast, Joe was most content and happy just to see all his family gathered together. During their retirement years, Joe and Mimi took advantage of day trips, sharing dinner and coffee, visiting Atlantic City, and just being in each other's company. One of their fondest memories was the occasion of sharing dinner with Frank Sinatra and Steve Wynn when the duo were in town, here in Utica. As an avid bowler who loved the game, his most memorable championship was won with his son Joe. True to New York State, he avidly supported the NY Yankees, the NY Giants, and the Syracuse Orangemen. He would often drive to Yankee Stadium when the Yankees were playing a home game, where he would nap for 3 innings, and wake up for the big plays. Joe was of the Catholic Faith and in his heart he held a deep spiritual connection to God. Joe is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Joseph A. III and Kelly Rubino of Herkimer, and Christopher and Michelle Rubino of Barneveld; his daughter, Dana Borek; his grandchildren, Melissa, Michele, Jennifer and their father Glen Borek, and Keith, Nicole, and Nicholas; and his 5 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws Dorothy "Dottie" and Joseph F. Mazza, Libby and Rocco Barella, Manny "Sonny" Feldman, and Robert and Betty Feldman. He was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Nicholas and Lorraine Rubino, and Dominick P. Rubino; his sister and brother-in-law, Angeline "Ang" and Frank J. Yacco, Jr.; and his sister-in-law, Theresa Feldman. The family is grateful to Dr. Mathew Ulahannan, Dr. Daniel Berg, and the staff of the 3rd Floor Intensive Care Unit at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center, especially Dr. Joseph Booth, for their compassion, understanding, and professional guidance; and Connie Buffa for going above and beyond in caring for the Rubino family. In keeping with Joe's wishes, all funeral services and interment in Calvary Cemetery will take place privately and at the convenience of the family. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in lieu of flowers may make a donation to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413. The Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. is providing the guidance in lighting the path for the Rubino family. "Well I guess you've had that long enough."

Joseph A. "Joe" Rubino Jr.

July 4, 1930 - October 26, 2012