Mrs. Mary (Angrisano) Cavallaro

Mrs. Mary (Angrisano) Cavallaro, age 83, went Home peacefully as she passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2015 surrounded by her loved ones. Born in Utica on March 5, 1932, Mary was the daughter of the late Gaetano and Constance (Botta) Angrisano. She was raised and educated locally. On June 30, 1951 she wed Nicholas A. Cavallaro; their 47 year marriage was a match made in heaven. They were attentive to each other’s needs and were perfect companions in life. Her beloved Nick passed away on April 6, 1999. Mary held a position at the Oneita Knitting Mill and also at the General Electric Company/Bleecker Street site where she worked as an assembler and tester, retiring upon the plant’s closing. She then dedicated herself to her mother, a labor of love she accepted with honor. Mary had great strength of character and lovingly cared for her family in her own unique way. She was adored and appreciated by her loved ones as well as the many people whose lives she touched. Though she hailed from humble beginnings, she touched so many lives with her warmth, wisdom, and grace. For Mary, it was all about the kids! They kept her young, and she enjoyed life in so many ways. As a matriarch and mother, she was the best. She made many unique “memories” with each of her children, and the merriment continued when the grandchildren were growing up. They filled her heart with a joy that was beyond words; her great grandchildren were a blessing that lit up her life and lifted her heart during her later years. She rejuvenated herself when she joined her daughter, Geri, in the operation of her home-based family day care. She cooked, assisted in projects, and loved the opportunity to be among children who affectionately called her “Gram”. Because of her baking talents, everyone in the Valley knew of her historic “biscuits”. On June 9, 2015, she was presented with the Staff Choice Award for “Friends of Children” reflecting her 25 years of devoted, loving service. Mary’s energy knew no bounds. She was fond of her Friday night ritual at the Casino where she enjoyed the sights, the sounds, the people, and dining out. Mary was a devout Catholic from her youth and practiced her faith at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Her attendance at 8:00 am Mass was an important part of her personal spirituality. Mary is survived by her children and their spouses, Jennifer Candido of Utica, Nicholas and Nicolette Cavallaro of Fishkill, Geri and Allen Kazmerski of Little Falls, and Joann and Jim Riccardi, Jr. of Whitesboro; her grandchildren, Brandi Candido and Kerry Carville; Dana and Dr. Luciano Iorizzo, Ander Kazmerski and Casey Zampella; Jimmy Riccardi III and Dr. Amanda Hecox; her great-grandchildren, Alexis Candido; Daniel Iorizzo, and Lydia Iorizzo; and her brother and sister-in-law, Nicholas and Caren Angrisano. Her extended family includes many nieces, especially Maryann Parzych, with whom she shared a ‘best friend’ relationship; her nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, godchildren, and sister-in-law Norma Angrisano. She was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Josephine and Walter Parzych; and her brother, Jack Joseph Angrisano, Sr. The family extends appreciation to Dr. Kevin McCormick and his staff, including Cathy who provided guidance and direction to Mary; the Visiting Nurse Association staff who were so attentive and sensitive; the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. who cared for Mary and her family with a sensitive heart and genuine compassion. Yvette was an inspirational force, offering daily prayers and a dose of laughter; Fr. Mark Pasik whose supplications were a source of great solace; and Sue Purpura and Jessica “Jessie” Bronga who gave of themselves with much love, comfort, and companionship. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Mary’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. Committal Prayers and Interment will follow graveside at Calvary Cemetery.

Mrs. Mary (Angrisano) Cavallaro

March 5, 1932 - June 20, 2015