Mario "Poppy" Jellencich

Mr. Mario "Poppy" Jellencich, age 67, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 15, 2006, at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center. His family was by his side at the time of his passing. Born in Fiuma, Italy on March 7, 1938, Mario was the son of the late Mariano "Nonno" and Aurora (Podnar) Jellencich. Having been raised and educated in Tortona, Italy, he then came to the U.S. and settled in Utica. On July 29, 1966 he was joined in marriage with the former Judith "Judy" Giovinazzo with whom he has shared a union of almost 40 years. The true love and the commitment to family life have been a constant and steadfast source of joy and happiness to them. A master tile setter by trade, Mr. Jellencich was employed with various local firms, including Dick's Tile Co., Angelo Nole Construction, and Dick Alexander of Edgebrook Construction. Possessing a true passion for his trade as well as a strong and honorable work ethic, Mario was known and respected as an outstanding craftsman. He was so closely identified with the quality and artistry of his work that he was known throughout the area as "Mario, the Tile Man." Considering it to be "their song," Mario and Judy had a special attachment to the song, "More," because they felt that the lyrics reflected the nature of their relationship and also expressed their mutual love and admiration. In addition, Mario was an exemplary family man: there were no limits to what he would do or how far he would go for the benefit and well-being of his family, especially his children. Among his favorite activities, he especially loved the various holidays and all family gatherings and celebrations, because such occasions provided him with the opportunity to enjoy the company of his children and their families and to savor his pride in them. Blessed with a kind heart, a generous spirit, and a genuine manner, Mario earned the love and respect of many. He was proud of his heritage and upbringing, a "gentleman of the old school," his behavior was distinguished by his courteous and gracious ways, a code of conduct which he honorably practiced. A loving pet-owner, he cherished in his heart the memory of his puppy, Tiffy, who preceded him in death. In a life filled with many enjoyable activities and achievements, a particularly memorable event was when he landed a 40-pound striped bass while he and Judy visited her sister Lorraine on Cape Cod. Mario was a longtime and current member of the Laborers Union #35 and a communicant of St. Agnes Church. Mr. Jellencich is survived by his wife, Judy; two daughters and sons-in-law, Francesca and Fernando Guzman of Utica, and Rosemary and David Beratta of New Hartford; and a son, Mariano "Mario" Jellencich of Utica and his fiance, Katrina Rockwood. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Angel, Danielle, and Marchella Guzman; Nicholas and Alexandra "Ally" Beratta; and Mariano Jellencich; and by a great-granddaughter, Brianna. In addition, his survivors include a brother and sister-in-law, Luigi "Gigi" and Betty (Abel) Jellencich of Utica; numerous nieces and nephews, including Liza and Brian LaMay, and Lori Green; many great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; and his in-laws, Joseph and Sharon Giovinazzo, Frank and Akim Giovinazzo, Mary and Lorraine Giovinazzo, and William Jr. and Carol Giovinazzo. He also was related by love and motherly influence to Eleanor Scialdone, and many wonderful and longtime friends who blessed his life with their presence. He was predeceased by three sisters who lived in Italy and his in-laws, William and Florence Giovinazzo. The family extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Tisch for the support, compassion, and dedication he shared with Mario and Judy. Thanks also to the entire staff of the 4th floor of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center for the outstanding care they provided as they shared in the pain and loss endured by the Jellencich family, and especially to Matt Feldman for his caring and sympathetic ways. In addition, the family offers its heartfelt appreciation to his sister-in-law, Betty, who demonstrated loving and loyal family devotion in her commitment to assisting in Mario's care. Visitation will be held today (Friday) from 5-8 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Please omit floral offerings. Mario's funeral will commence on Saturday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

Mario "Poppy" Jellencich

March 7, 1928 - February 15, 2006