Joseph A. Verno

Mr. Joseph A. Verno, age 90, of Utica, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 8, 2008 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center. Born in Piedimonte, province of Caserta, Italy, on March 19, 1917, Joseph was the son of the late Salvatore and Assunta (Piatta) Verno. He came to the United States and Utica as a child where he was raised and educated, graduating from Utica Free Academy. A proud veteran of World War II, Joe served his country as a sergeant in the U. S. Army stationed in the European Theater of Operations. On October 19, 1940 he married the former Josephine R. Martucci who passed away on March 5, 2004. Well-suited for each other, the couple enjoyed a 63-year union. Joe began his 30 years of employment with the U. S. Postal Service as a carrier, aspiring to the position of foreman. He was an active member and held office with the G.P.O. Federal Credit Union. Joe was admired for the commitment he displayed in fulfilling his roles as husband, father, and grandfather. He wholeheartedly and proudly accepted the responsibilities and joys that filled his life. As an avid sportsman, he pursued bowling and golfing, and was a frequent patron of the Valley View golf course for many years. His love of sports was evident year round, especially during baseball season when he championed the New York Yankees. Joe also found pleasure in reading. Joseph cherished, during his early retirment days, the memories of his trip back to his native land in Caserta and also the many winters he vacacationed with his wife in Florida. He was a communicant of St. Anthony of Padua Church. Joseph is survived by his daughter, Josette M. LaBella and her companion, Ronald J. Farfaglia. He so often spoke of the love and admiration for his grandchildren’s accomplishments; Felix V. LaBella III, and Desiree M. LaBella; and his grandchildren’s father, Felix V. LaBella, Jr. Survivors also include his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Isabel Mungari, Mary Rizzo, and Carmel Martucci. He was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Margaret and Joseph Cappa; his two infant sisters in Italy; and his in-laws, Rocco and Carmella Martucci, Vito Martucci, Frank Rizzo, and Joseph Mungari. The family offers a sincere thank you to Tedi Karwowski who has been of tremendous and loving support and of great companionship to Joe. The Staff of Willow Park, especially Rhonda, have displayed outstanding and personal commitment while caring for Joe. Thanks also to all of those who cared for Joe over the years. In keeping with Joe’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Anthony of Padua Church. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Joseph A. Verno

March 19, 1917 - February 8, 2008