Lisa M. (Druscovich) Gilberti

UTICA - Lisa M. (Druscovich) Gilberti, age 58, went home to the Lord on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer. At the time of her passing, her loving family and friends were at her side. Born in Utica on May 30, 1963, Lisa was the daughter of Rosa (Millo) Druscovich and the late Marino Druscovich. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1981 and continued her studies at Russell Sage College where she graduated in 1985 with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy. She then pursued her post-graduate work at Utica College where she earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy/Therapist in 2008. At one time, Lisa was married to Frank Gilberti and they were blessed with a wonderful son; they remained friends to the very end. Lisa worked in her chosen profession as a Physical Therapist from 1985-2015, a commitment of 30 years. She eventually entered into private practice with Patty DiSpirito, and Lori Sitts, and they were fortunate to have the loyalty and shared vision of Regina Klodnicki and Liz Gubbins, who coordinated the daily activities of the organization. She last shared her profession as a Physical Therapist at The Pines at Utica. Throughout her career, Lisa’s dedication to those who needed inspiration, skilled rehabilitation direction, and motivation was second to none. She persevered and assisted many patients in promoting, maintaining, and restoring them to good health. What a fulfilling career she chose and achieved! Although Lisa had an accomplishedworking life, her primary focus was raising and being present for her son, Nick. She was involved in the developmental years of his life through the PTA, East Utica Tee-Ball, Minor League, Little League, and during his high school years, the Ed Hinko Baseball League. She supported Nick’s skiing at area slopes, and in earlier years she dabbled in the sport herself. She was Nick’s greatest cheerleader and supporter, always supporting and encouraging him in his endeavors. Lisa was a constant presence in the lives of her son and her daughter-in-law Christina, always sharing the next phase of life and taking “little trips” to spend time together. Lisa loved the sun and the beach was like her heaven, so she traveled to many East Coast destinations to find her perfect paradise. She visited Florida to see friends and get a glimpse of the sunshine. She took advantage of a sunny day because the sun’s rays uplifted her soul. She also felt rejuvenated while floating in her pool. Her Proctor High School fellow graduates remained close and established “The Proctor Girls Coffee Club” of which she was a charter member. Lisa loved the holidays. At Christmas she would display several themed trees, and she recruited Nick and Tina to add their flair with her decorative style. Whenever the kids came home it was family time, and she prepared their special meals. In 2014 she was diagnosed with a rare cancer, Leiomyosarcoma, and although her odds were very grim, she entered into numerous remissions. Through the Lord’s intercession, she was blessed with faith and healing that sustained and uplifted her. She was a member of Redeemer Church, a church which she considered her family. Prior to attending Redeemer Church, was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. At Redeemer Church, Lisa served in numerous capacities and established a card ministry team to send cards to those on the church’s prayer list. She decided to receive baptism as an adult and the pastors and the membership became her family. Her pastors, especially Mike Servello, Jr. and Pastor Jim Synakowski were a comfort to Lisa and remained committed to ministering to her until she crossed over. Lisa is survived by her mom, Rosa, who lovingly supported her throughout her battle; and her son, Nicholas with whom she shared an unconditional love, and her daughter-in-law Christina (Vallese) with whom she spent precious times. They made Lisa’s life so complete. She also leaves her Gilberti nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and other in-laws, as well as her own cousins and aunt . Lisa was blessed with many dear and supportive friends, especially her long-time friends Maryann Carlo, Lorrena Randio, Debbie Dillon, Tunde Popovics, members of the Proctor Girls Coffee Club, her church family, and many others. These special people were like sisters and brothers to her and she cherished them dearly. The family will always appreciate all they did to support and care for her. Through the guidance of Dr. Atul Butala and his staff, the outstanding personnel of the Regional Cancer Center, Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and the amazing staff of the St. Luke’s Oncology Unit, Lisa was able to persevere. When her journey brought her to the need for Hospice & Palliative Care, and the excellent staff of the Abraham House in Rome, Lisa began her transition and was able to have her family, friends, and those who loved her so dearly find comfort in the mission of both of these outstanding organizations. Through all of her life’s experiences she was upheld by the Lord and she came to know fellow caretakers who touched her heart through their compassionate spirits. Relatives and friends may pay their respects to Lisa’s family on Saturday, July 17, 2021 from 10-11 at Redeemer Church, 931 Herkimer Rd. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Lisa’s name may be directed to the Abraham House online at https://www.theabrahamhouse.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service. Lisa’s Celebration of Life will commence at 11:00 upon conclusion of visitation.

Lisa M. (Druscovich) Gilberti

May 30, 1963 - July 6, 2021