Mr. Michael J. Grande

Mr. Michael J. Grande, age 75, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 in the comfort of his home with the love and support of his family. Born in Utica on January 12, 1936 Michael was the son of the late Rocco and Carmella “Cora” (Barbero) Grande. Raised and educated in Utica, he attended T.R. Proctor High School. A United States Marine Corps veteran, he proudly served our country during the Korean War. On July 6, 1957 he married the former Carmella Graziadei who passed away on December 17, 1991; from their 34 year union came the blessing of 8 children. Michael’s work career varied; it included being a bartender at the Hotel Utica, and being the owner and operator of the Steinhouse Tavern with the assistance of his family. A person with discriminating taste, he was quite the connoisseur and loved good food, especially the traditional Italian dishes prepared by his family. Michael could be characterized as a survivor, adventurous and independent by nature. One of his greatest and proudest relationships was the one he shared with his grandchildren who he truly adored. He will be remembered for his belief in the philosophy, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink”. He was an avid sportsman and fan of the New York Yankees and the Syracuse Orangemen, occasionally treating his grandchildren to excursions to see the games in person. He also enjoyed the thrill of the Saratoga Raceway. His greatest delight which never lost its enthusiasm was the many memorable trips to New York City, often accompanied by his daughters. Michael is survived by his children and their families, Michael J., Jr. and Eileen Grande of Whitesboro, Carla M. Grande, and Rochelle A. Grande, both of New Hartford, Rocco V. and Lisa Grande of Utica, Michele A. and John Dellerba, Christine R. Lupino, all of Marcy, Phillip and Melissa Grande of Sauquoit, and Georgeann “Gigi” and Chu Centeno of Utica; and his grandchildren, Mikey, Joseph, Danielle, Phillip, and Maree; Angela; Gabriella, Rocco, and Alexandra; Gianna and John; John and Rocco and fiancée Alyssa; Antonio and Adrianna; Kristina, Izabella, Giovanna, and Sofia. He also leaves his brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Pauline Grande of Utica; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, Rosanne and Matt Zane, Carmelita Graziadei, Phillip and Anna Theresa Graziadei, Michael and Marilyn Graziadei, and George Graziadei; and the daily friendship of Dave Sykes and Sal Noti. He was predeceased by his in-laws, Rocco “Robbie” Graziadei, and Carlo A. Graziadei. During recent months, Michael was appreciative of the care provided to him by the Veterans Administration Hospital in Syracuse; the entire staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center; and the Rehabilitation Unit at the Heritage Health Care Center. The family respected Michael’s desire to have no public visitation. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Memorial Gathering and Celebration of Michael’s Life which will be held on Monday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish officiated by Rev. Felix Colosimo with Military Honors. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., Utica, NY 13501.

Mr. Michael J. Grande

January 12, 1936 - February 22, 2011