Michael J. Puleo

Mr. Michael J. Puleo, age 84, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, March 6, 2007, in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on March 1, 1923, Michael was the son of the late Onofrio and Maria (Ducato) Puleo. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. He furthered his studies at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Army as a ranking sergeant and specialist in communications. On October 21, 1950 he married the former Anne M. Perretta with whom he shared 56 years of a wonderful marriage filled with much love and devotion; they were truly made for each other and shared in the commitment of family life. Michael began his working career at Sylvania Corp. in Emporium, PA. He then relocated back to Utica and worked at General Electric for a number of years. His next vocational endeavor was as a teacher with the Frankfort Central High School. Subsequently, he accepted a position with the Utica City School District and taught mathematics at Utica Free Academy until his retirement in 1989. Michael lived a life filled with love and respect from his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and his entire family. A man of sterling character and integrity, his memory will remain in the hearts of his family and those he loved. He was proud of his precision with mathematical ability, a gift he so generously shared. An avid reader, Michael’s pastime interests included photography, crossword puzzles, and coin and stamp collecting. His civic affiliations included the Knights of Columbus/3rd Degree, and the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge. He was also a retired member of the Utica Teachers Association. He was a parishioner and usher at St. Anthony of Padua Church. Michael is survived by his devoted wife, Anne; his daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Elaine and Mathew Seppo of Duluth, MN, Barbara A. and David L. Critelli of New Hartford, and Phyllis J. Puleo and fiancé Steven Madrak. He was preceded in death by two infant sons. Also surviving are his four beautiful grandchildren, Kristen Critelli, Lauren Critelli, Michael Critelli, and Amy Critelli; his brother and sister-in-law, John and Victoria Puleo of Bradenton, FL; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Rose Puleo, and Antoinette DeLorenzo. Michael was blessed with many special friends, including the "Tuesday coffee club" which met at Marr-Logg Restaurant. He was predeceased by two sisters, Ann F. Puleo and Providence "Provie" and Anthony Mazzola; and two brothers and a sister-in-law, Philip J. and MaryJane Puleo, and Nicholas S. Puleo. The family offers heartfelt thanks to Dr. Samir Desai, Dr. John Crawford, and Dr. Herbert Sipp, for their consideration and care. Thanks also to Dr. Samuel Rubino for his longstanding friendship and concern throughout the years; and to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., especially acknowledging Sue, Roseann, Irene, Joann, Steve, Nadine, and Jan for providing comfort and expertise in assisting his family to care for Michael at home. Gratitude is also extended to Father Felix Colosimo for his friendship and blessing. Visitation will be held on Friday (today) from 4-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Mr. Puleo’s honor to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc.; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Michael’s funeral will commence on Saturday at 12:00 noon from the funeral home and at 1:00 at St. Anthony of Padua Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Military Honors. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

Michael J. Puleo

March 1, 1923 - March 6, 2007