MaryEllen (Puglio) DeCarlo

MaryEllen (Puglio) DeCarlo, age 70, went home to be with the Lord when she passed away on Friday, April 12, 2013 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse with the love and support of her family. Born in Utica on November 6, 1942, MaryEllen was the daughter of the late John R. and Jasmine (Cavallo) Puglio. She also knew the love of her aunt Annabel (Cavallo) Puglio. She was raised and educated locally until the age of 15 when she graciously fulfilled the wishes of her parents to attend the Knox School for Girls in Long Island. It was there that she took advantage of mastering the game of tennis and competing at the state level, as well as becoming proficient at horseback riding English saddle. She attended Western College for Women in Ohio and returned to Utica where she pursued academic studies for a career as a Radiology Technician. As a licensed X-ray Technician, MaryEllen held a number of positions locally beginning at Oneida County and St. Joseph’s Hospital. Later, she worked at Children’s Hospital, the office of Dr. Robert MacCallum & Dr. Harold Heintz, and lastly a full time position at Faxton Hospital, retiring in 1985. MaryEllen extended her energies to her children’s everyday events with encouragement and pride. A highly motivated matriarch, she was selfless in her devotion to her family in providing a home and upbringing. She was blessed with the attributes of being loving, supportive, caring, and understanding. Among the most special accomplishments of her life were raising her 3 sons and owning her own home, both of which she cared for with great pride. She presented herself with confidence, kindness, and openness to others, and the friendships she made were like family. A caretaker by nature, she offered her skills to Hospice and Palliative Care in the coordination of patient care. MaryEllen earned the recognition of NY State Volunteer-of-the-Year in 2008. The birth of her granddaughter revitalized her energies and she cherished her little “petunia” who lovingly addressed her as “Nonnie”; the two shared a wonderful and fulfilling bond. She truly enjoyed the outdoors and the sport of fishing which she shared with her sons, as well as gardening where she was “one with the soil”. She prepared fabulous fare inspired by her grandmother Puglio, and was content and happy of heart when her children gathered to share her homemade meals. At one time, MaryEllen was a member of the New Hartford Lions Club Auxiliary and served as treasurer for the organization. She felt a synergy and love for Syracuse basketball and was especially proud of their performance this year. A woman of deep faith and a devout Roman Catholic, MaryEllen loved to attend novenas and was a member of St. Thomas Church. MaryEllen is survived by her sons and their families, Peter J. DeCarlo and fiancée Heather M. Galinski of Clinton, Mark A. DeCarlo of New Hartford, and Jonathan P. DeCarlo and Ronny Zarb-Cousin of Colorado; and her precious granddaughter, Zoe Marie DeCarlo. A dog lover, she held a place in her heart for her past pets, Bing, Buddy, and Patches, and she currently knew the companionship of Yogi. Also left to remember her are her dear cousins the Curcio family, whom she loved deeply. She also leaves her friend, Pamela Mason, who was endeared to MaryEllen; Bill and Anita Baldwin with whom she shared a passion and friendship that endured; her special group of girlfriends, and the friends of her sons with whom she shared a special bond. She was predeceased by Joe and Ann Torchia who she loved as a second set of parents. The family extends appreciation to Dr. James Hyla, Dr. George Kozminski, Dr. Jeffrey Kirshner, Dr. Robert Menotti; a team of physicians who brought MaryEllen guidance and much comfort. Thanks also to Father David Sears for his spiritual guidance. The family will honor MaryEllen’s life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend MaryEllen's funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday morning at 11:30 at St. Thomas Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. David Sears. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be directed to the Stevens-Swan Humane Society, Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., or Lupus Foundation of America/Marguerite Curri Chapter; envelopes will be available at the service. Interment will take place graveside in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

MaryEllen (Puglio) DeCarlo

November 6, 1942 - April 12, 2013