Michael R. Urgo

Mr. Michael R. Urgo, age 87, of Utica, passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on October 11, 1920, Michael was the son of the late John and Anna (Buttitta) Urgo. Raised and educated locally, he graduated with the 2nd graduating class of T. R. Proctor High School in 1939. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he served his country in the rank of corporal from 1942-1946 stationed in London and other various locations in the United States. On June 23, 1951 he married the former Dolores E. Cappelli to whom he was devoted for 57 years in a loving marriage graced by mutual respect. At one time Mike was employed by the Partlow Corporation where he worked as an assembler for 26 years. He was a kind and considerate man who loved people and endeavored to make them happy. His life was guided by fair and honest principles and he imparted those values to his children. An excellent musician and vocalist, Mike was the original founder of the Wandering Troubadores, a group that entertained locally on WKTV and played for the first Heart Telethon on WIBX Radio. Along with Mike, the group consisted of Frank Pazzola, Anthony Sisti, Mike Urino, Sal Paladino, and his cousin Frank Buttita. They performed in the area for many charity events, playing together as a group for over 40 years. For Mike, music was his life and he enjoyed having political conversations with his friends. He enjoyed dining at Grimaldi’s Restaurant and he was a member of the American Legion Post #229. He was a communicant of St. Peter’s Church. Michael is survived by his wife, Dolores; and his sons and daughter-in-law, Michael S. Urgo of Utica, and David John and Kelly Urgo of Alexandria, VA. Survivors also include several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, his Aunt Mary Buttita of Utica, and many dear and cherished friends, too numerous to mention. He was predeceased by his sister, Mary Urgo DeMichele; and his infant brother, Frank Urgo. The family is grateful to the nurses and staff of the Intensive Care Unit at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center for all the care and compassion shown to Michael and his family. Visitation will be held Tuesday (today) from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Michael’s honor to the American Heart Association; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. In keeping with the family's wishes, there will be no formal services. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Michael R. Urgo

October 11, 1920 - May 31, 2008