Mr. Lawrence A. "Larry" Saponari

YORKVILLE - Mr. Lawrence A. “Larry” Saponari, age 75, passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at peace with his loved ones by his side. Born in Utica on November 2, 1944, Lawrence was the son of the late Bruno and Helen (Gadziala) Saponari. He was educated in the NY Mills School District and graduated with the Class of 1962. In school, he was active in athletics, including football, baseball (which was his passion), and track. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Larry enlisted at the age of 18 and honorably served his country from 1962-1967 stationed overseas as well as stateside. Initially, Larry worked for the United States government in the Finance Department. He was later employed as a substitute teacher and tutor in local school districts, affectionately known as “Mr. Larry". Larry’s family and his grandchildren knew his unbounded love. He saw his grandkids off to school each morning and would be waiting for them when they came home. He was a fun and playful Poppy Larry. The kids uplifted his soul and applauded his “Big Kid” and entertaining nature. His nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews also knew his love and affection. A free spirit, Larry never lingered in one place too long; he had to go, …and everyone came to accept his imminent mobility. But his transitory nature did not affect his close friendships of a lifetime with Butch, Danny, and Stan. If you saw Larry on the street, he was always attired in a high turtleneck and sport coat, an old-school look and a style he embraced. The Top of the Morning Cafe on Trenton Road was a meeting place for Larry and friends of recent years with whom he loved spending time. He also frequented Friday brunch at the Turning Stone and Sunday morning at Panera’s for breakfast. He kept active and involved. He was a die hard NY Yankee fan, and there are many memories of him and his father, from opposite rooms, bantering over players, coaches, and calls; Larry would come out in his “Yankee Robe” to make sure his father saw all the plays! His passion for baseball led him to serve as an umpire for Babe Ruth League baseball at Wankel field. His vehicles were also important to him, and his pristine cars were detailed to perfection. He especially enjoyed the performance of his Mustangs. Larry never stayed long at one place, but his presence was felt and will never be forgotten by those who called him friend, and all who loved him as family. Larry is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Valerie and Gary DeStefanis; his grandchildren, Isabella, Madison, and Mathew; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Rosie and Rich Zajac, Patty and Jimmy Derella, and Kathy Saponari. He also leaves his adored nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, godchildren, and cousins. He was predeceased by his loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. Larry’s daughter and her family are grateful to the Syracuse VA Medical Center nursing staff of 7B for the compassion and dignified care rendered to Larry, especially Wendy who was a godsend. Their communication with his daughter was outstanding and so admirable. He received 5-star treatment. A Memorial Gathering in Larry’s honor will be held Sunday afternoon from 1:00-3:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Due to the current restrictions, we will be operating at a limited occupancy. We ask for your patience as we try to accommodate those coming to support the Saponari family. Face masks must be worn and contact tracing will be implemented. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Larry’s Memorial Service and Celebration of Life which will commence at 3:00 at the funeral home at the conclusion of visitation. Inurnment will take place in Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum at Holy Trinity Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Please take a moment to connect with Larry’s family through the “Memories” section of his obituary. Our prayers go out to all as a sign of our continued support.

Mr. Lawrence A. "Larry" Saponari

November 2, 1944 - September 8, 2020