Dr. Nicholas J. Capuana

SAUQUOIT – Dr. Nicholas J. Capuana, age 79, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in the comfort and dignity of his beloved home in Sauquoit, surrounded by his loving and devoted family. Born in Utica on October 19, 1945, Nicholas was the son of the late Leonard J. and Virginia (Spaziani) Capuana. He was a graduate of Utica Free Academy. A natural athlete, Nick attended SUNY University at Buffalo on a football scholarship and was awarded “Athlete-of-the-Year” in 1966. He also received the Dom Grossl Award, the highest sports honor the University of Buffalo can bestow, because of his “unselfishness and willingness to sacrifice personal glory for the good of the team.” Nick went on to earn his doctorate of ophthalmology from the Buffalo School of Medicine. He also honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy in the 1970s. While doing hospital rounds in Buffalo, Nick met the love of his life, the former Marilyn Clark. The two were married on July 13, 1972. Nick and Marilyn were an amazing team who complemented each other perfectly. Both creative and practical problem solvers, they shared an unwavering vision to live life fully yet simply. Always welcoming and kind, they journeyed through life truly together and enriched all who crossed their path. The couple shared 51 years prior to Marilyn’s untimely passing on January 16, 2023. When he and Marilyn moved to the Utica area to raise their children, Nick established his own private ophthalmology practice in Utica. His impeccable work ethic, paired with his compassionate nature, led to an enormously successful practice that served the community for decades. Nick was a kind and multi-talented man, both interesting and genuinely interested in others. He made the most of each day, living with purpose, energy, and curiosity. A lifelong lover of the outdoors, Nick found joy in horseback riding, mushroom foraging, fishing, skiing, speed skating, running, cooking, and tending to his vineyard and garden. Annual grape harvests and winemaking were cherished traditions, often shared with family and friends—gatherings he held dear. Exercise was essential to his daily rhythm, as was his passion for exploration and learning. Being part of the Italian American community in Utica was a source of pride for Nick. He taught himself Italian and loved traveling to Italy with Marilyn and close friends. His zest for life and the natural world left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. At one time, Nick was an active member of the Rotary Club, and he and Marilyn welcomed international students into their home through the club’s exchange program. He was also a proud member of the fraternal group of Masons. Nick is survived by his beloved children, Nicole Capuana and her husband John Rukenbrod, Tonia Capuana, Erica Capuana and her husband David Dow, and Andrew Capuana; and precious grandchildren, Otto Rukenbrod; Wilder Printz; and Willa, and Lupine Dow. Nick’s memory will live on in the hearts of his brother and sister-in-law, Leonard A. and Ann Capuana; sister, Marguerite Duda (the late Ronald W. Duda); nieces and nephews, Michael and Kim Capuana, Lisa Capuana; Chris and Tony DeSarro, and Kim and William P. Carroll and their families; several cousins, with special mention of Gerald Spaziani who was like a brother to Nick; mother-in-law, Shirley Clark; and in-laws, Debby Koester, Don Clark, Nancy Clark, Carrie Lynn Clark Moore, and Beverly Harris and their families. Throughout his life, Nick amassed many friendships that he held close to his heart. He was additionally predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Willis H. Clark and Dorothy J. Fisher; and son-in-law, Tannen Printz. The Capuana family extends their deepest gratitude to all of Nick’s personal caregivers for their unwavering dedication and compassion. They also wish to thank Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. for providing comfort and support during the final stage of Nick’s earthly journey. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. A time of remembrance and sharing will commence at 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions in Nick’s honor may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association online at www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate, or Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. online at www.hospicecareinc.org/donate. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery alongside his beloved Marilyn at the convenience of the family.

Dr. Nicholas J. Capuana

October 19, 1945 - May 11, 2025