Louis J. LaPolla, Sr.

Mr. Louis J. LaPolla, Sr., age 87, of Utica, passed away on Friday, May 16, 2008 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his family by his side. Born in Foggia, Italy on January 10, 1921, Louis was the son of the late Antonio and Maria (DeFuria) LaPolla. During the early years of his childhood his family relocated to the United States and settled in Utica where he was raised and educated. As a proud veteran of the U.S. Army he served his country in the Philippines. At one time he shared a blessed union with the former Marion Russo. For 20 years during his earlier working life, Louis was employed by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles as a clerk, the position from which he retired. During his spare time Louis enjoyed playing shuffleboard and the thrill of horse racing. He was a member of the Ilion-Frankfort VFW Post 502, and a regular patron at Kozar’s Grill. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Church. Louis is survived by Marion, his wife of over 25 years; his daughter and son-in-law, Marion and Michael Sturr; his sons and daughter-in-law, Anthony L. LaPolla, Louis D. and Andrea M. LaPolla, and Dominic LaPolla; his grandchildren, Madeline and Matthew Barlow, Marie and Mark Rastani, Antoinette and Jim MacKay, Michelle and David Bintz, Michael LaPolla, Melissa Sturr, Michael and Nicole Sturr, Matthew Sturr, Nina and Frank Caporale, Julian LaPolla, Amanda LaPolla and her fiancé Allan Grabowski; and his 6 great-grandchildren. Survivors also include his brother, John A. LaPolla of Utica; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and brother-in-law, John Yozzi. He was predeceased by his sisters, Mary Yozzi, and Angeline LaPolla; and his sister-in-law, Evelyn M. LaPolla. The family extends thanks to the Lutheran Healthcare staff Valley Crest section and the nurses and staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Emergency Room. In keeping with Louis’ wishes, there will be no public visitation. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Louis’ Memorial Service which will be celebrated on Monday morning at 10:30 at St. Anthony of Padua Church. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Louis’ honor to the American Heart Association; envelopes will be available at the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Louis J. LaPolla, Sr.

January 10, 1921 - May 16, 2008