Joseph J. Spina

Mr. Joseph J. Spina, age 86, passed away on Sunday, September 15, 2013 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center following a long term illness. Born in Utica on January 9, 1927, Joseph was the son of the late Louis and Mary (Mutolo) Spina. He was raised and educated locally. A veteran of World War II, he honorably served his country in the United States Navy. On August 28, 1948 he wed the former Hazel J. Carone with whom he shared a marriage blessed with 65 years of happiness and love. Joseph worked for over 35 years at the Rome Cable Company, the position from which he retired as a steamfitter. Joseph is survived by his wife, Hazel; his daughters and sons-in-law, Theresa and Gary Soron of Utica, and Mary and Emedin Rivera of NJ; his son, Louis J. Spina of Croton-on-Hudson; his grandchildren, Jennifer and Ken Stilwell, Danielle Soron, Kalina Rivera and fiancé Jim, Emedin Rivera Jr., Ariana Rivera, Gabrielle and Ben Markwart, and Jaclyn Spina, and their mother Ann Spina, and his great-grandchildren, Christopher Stilwell, and Michael Stilwell. He also leaves his sisters, Frances Spina, and Donna Bendino; and his brother, Julio Spina, all of Utica; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Jack and Elizabeth Carone of Buffalo, Retired UPD Sgt. Terrance W. and Carol Carone of Sauquoit, and Dr. Thomas and Julie Carone of New Hartford. Gratitude is extended to Kathy, the ‘angel nurse’ at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for her unending care and compassion; she was at Joseph’s bedside and lovingly held his hand. Thanks also to the nurses at the Presbyterian Home for the care rendered to Joseph during his stay. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Joseph's funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Joseph & St. Patrick’s Church where his Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Richard O’Neill with Military Honors conferred by the United States Navy. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Joseph J. Spina

January 9, 1927 - September 15, 2013