Mr. Michael C. "Mike" Fernicola

Mr. Michael C. “Mike” Fernicola, age 57, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at the St. Luke’s Home with his supportive family by his side. Michael was born in Utica on July 1, 1954, the son of Bernice (Rudolph) Fernicola and the late Anthony J. Fernicola. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of Utica Free Academy and continued his academic studies at the Berkley School of Music in Boston. Throughout the years, Mike and companion Elaine Nguyen shared a relationship built on respect and support for one another. Mike was an outgoing, decent, kind-hearted, affable man and a friend to all. He also held a special abiding love and regard for animals. He was inherently entertaining and his characteristic outgoing personality always drew a crowd. He was endowed with an engaging sense of humor and gift of showmanship that warmed the hearts of those around him and gave him satisfaction from rousing their laughter. His family celebrates his life through what he loved best – playing his trumpet with the Honeybush Brothers, a part of his life that is best illustrated by a poem written by his sister: The Joy of Bees Mo Ferree Bees labor in the hive. Each, his duty to perform Preparing the golden nectar Tickling the senses. Bees bring us joy. Humming their song The buzzing fills our ears. As the sun fired when Denny’s lights blazed Rod buzzed his trumpet. But Mike buzzed and dive-bombed A pollen splash Flying from the stage, raising the roof And splitting honeycomb for the crowd. And there was Ed with his strong support Fingers strumming as the flora danced round. Lew could fly too as his fingers raced across the keyboard From pedal to petal and key to stamen. Ba Dummp… Ba Dummp… Into the hive dove Wayne keeping the beat for the others to follow. And filling the air was Bobby spraying the base note of fragrance From flowers visited. Before the comb could drip, Kevin strung the sounds together, The main drone who managed them all. Together they made the sweet sound of honey-flowing fountains of gold That even Pooh would approve of. They provided delight --- A dance for some, a special event for others, Sweet joy tasted now in memories. To provide for, to share with Is what it’s all about. We thank you Honeybush Brothers, for your golden sounds That like the bees, have buzzed so much joy into our lives. Mike Fernicola – Lover of animals Friend to all Mike is survived by his mother, Bernice Fernicola of Utica; his sister, Marilyn “Mo” Ferree of Ripley, NY; and sister-in-law, Donna J. Fernicola, of Utica; nephews, Jake and Anthony Fernicola both of New Hartford; his longtime companion Elaine Nguyen, at home; and special friends Ed and Bobby, from the Honeybush Brothers. He was predeceased by his father, Anthony J. Fernicola, brother, Robert E. Fernicola; and brother-in-law, Joel Ferree. The family extends sincere thanks to the staff at the St. Luke’s Home, especially Jack Cofano and Emily Curly who went above and beyond the call of duty to make Mike’s last days a time to remember. Visitation will be held on Saturday morning from 10:00-12:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Mike’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence immediately upon the conclusion of visitation at 12:00 p.m. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in Mike’s honor may make a donation to the Northern Chautauqua Canine Rescue, Gale Street, Westfield, NY 14787.

Mr. Michael C. "Mike" Fernicola

July 1, 1954 - May 29, 2012