Michael Alfred "Mike" Taurisano Sr.

Mr. Michael Taurisano, Sr., age 90, of Utica, passed away on Wednesday, August 25, 2010 in the comfort and privacy of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on September 21, 1919, Mike was the son of the late Michael and Annamarie (Langone) Taurisano. Mike was raised and educated locally. He was a proud veteran of World War II, serving his country in the United States Army from 1942-1945. On September 21, 1946 he wed the former Rose LaCanna who passed away on October 30, 1954. He was blessed with a second union on May 7, 1960 when he married the former Margaret Costello who passed away on March 26, 1994. Mike shared loving unions graced with mutual caring, and dedication to family. After the war, Mike owned and operated “Mike’s Service”, a gasoline and service station located on the corner of Mohawk and Elizabeth Streets, where he earned numerous awards for maintaining the cleanest and neatest service station in town. Upon the sale of his business in 1966, Mike accepted a position with the United States Postal Service as a letter carrier, retiring in 1984. A highly motivated, reliable, and generous man, he offered unconditional love to his family and found happiness in giving to those who shared his life. He knew the value of education for his family, and he upheld his Italian heritage and traditions. He was a great storyteller, recounting family history and humorous tales from years past. He was a man of simple pleasures. He kept informed of current events, and kept busy by fixing cars and volunteering his handyman skills. He shared dinner with his sister, Eileen, every Thursday, and was especially proud of the dance he shared with his granddaughter, Casie, on her wedding day. He passed down his love of the outdoors to his son, Bobby, his greatest hunting partner. Their trips in the woods were often accompanied by Mike’s favorite hunting dogs, Katie, Bucky, and Tulip. Mike is survived by his son, Bobby Taurisano and Kelly Lincourt of Utica; daughters and sons-in-law, Anne Marie and Arthur Swinegar of Whitesboro, and Donna and Cosmo Pellegrino, Jr. of Deerfield. Always close to his heart was the memory of his son, Michael Taurisano, Jr., who passed away on December 12, 2005. He also leaves his daughter-in-law, Carol Taurisano. He is survived by his grandchildren and their families, James, Rosanne, Melissa, Teri, DeAnna, and Stephanie Taurisano, Brandin Schilingo, Alan Swinegar, Casie and Christopher Johnson, Kelly Pellegrino, and Cosmo Pellegrino III; and his great-grandchildren, Alyssa, Nito, Vanessa, Justin, Hannah, Michael, Anthony, Caleb, Jocelyn, Elycia, and Salvatore. Survivors also include his sister, Eileen Taurisano of Utica and family friend, Frank LaBella; many nieces and nephews, especially John and Joseph Booth; sisters-in-law, Rose Tanzi, and Mary Costello; as well as many great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his brothers, Rocco, James, Anthony, and Alfred (best friend) Taurisano; and his sisters, Carmella Vitagliano, Rose Calidonna, Mary Swan, and Theresa Booth; and his many in-laws. The family extends sincere thanks to Dr. Pourushasp Dhabhar and his staff at the Slocum-Dickson Medical Group, and Mike’s comforting caregiver, Brandie. The family gathered privately to honor Mike’s life. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday morning at 9:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered 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., corner of Hammond Ave.

Michael Alfred "Mike" Taurisano Sr.

September 21, 1919 - August 25, 2010