Mr Joseph Anthony Salerno

Mr. Joseph Anthony Salerno, age 66, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his loving father by his side. Born in Utica on November 8, 1948, Joseph was the son of Anthony J. Salerno and the late Eleanora M. (Pelle) Salerno who passed on August 2, 2014. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1967. Joe worked as a grocery store associate for many local family-owned stores and later he held positions at Loblaws and Chicago Market. Joe began his career as a chef at the Heritage Health Care Center, a calling that continued for 10 years. Whatever the occupation or endeavor, Joe was industrious and put effort and energy into everything he did. He gave his very all. Joe was a quiet, sensitive man with a compassionate heart. He held true friendships with many old friends with whom he remained close over the years. He was attentive to others’ needs and helped whenever and wherever he could. He enjoyed candid conversations and family outdoor get-togethers. At the age of 29, Joe was afflicted with kidney malfunction which altered his life, yet he possessed a positive outlook in the face of his adversity. The hand of God was always present in Joe’s life and assisted him from one difficult challenge to the next. Joe was admired for the faith and wisdom residing in his heart, and his optimistic attitude was a beacon of hope to others who crossed his path. At one time, he was a member of the Kidney Society where he conversed with others about their common medical condition and encouraged them to have an affirmative attitude. Joe was blessed with a deep personal spirituality and often prayed the Rosary. He was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. For many years, Joe’s pastime interest was collecting baseball cards, a hobby he shared with his cousin Mary Rose, and his dear friends. He was also an avid and faithful follower of the New York Yankees. Years ago, he found pleasure fishing, especially off the pier at Sylvan Beach. As a boy, he was proud to assist his dad in building the foundation of their family home. Joseph is survived by his devoted and great Dad, Anthony; his aunts and uncles, Jennie and Thomas Sharpe, Richard and Delores Hance, and Nancy Robilatto; and his many cousins. He also leaves his close friends, Bob Gigliotti, Joe Gigliotti, and Frank Scalzo, whose company he cherished since they were young. The family is grateful to Dr. Ira Tisch with whom Joe shared a personal and professional relationship which was so meaningful. Thanks also to the staff of the Rehabilitation Unit at The Pines at Utica for the outstanding care rendered to Joe during his stay; and Fr. Joseph Salerno for his sensitivity and prayers. Visitation will be held Friday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral tributes. Joseph’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home and at 10:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. Entombment will follow at Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Mr Joseph Anthony Salerno

November 8, 1948 - February 17, 2015