Mr. Nicholas J. Motto

Mr. Nicholas J. Motto, age 73, of Utica, went to be with his Lord and loving parents when he passed away on Friday, September 9, 2011, at the Masonic Care Community of NY with his devoted family by his side. Nicholas was born in Utica on May 11, 1938, the son of the late Nicholas and Lucy (D’Aiuto) Motto. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School Class of 1956. During his high school years he was a clarinet player in the school band, and upon graduation he received the Arian Award for Music. A proud veteran of the United States Army, he honorably served his country as a marksman during the Korean War, stationed in Hawaii. Upon his return from the service, Nick acquired a position with the U.S. Postal Service as a clerk and also served in the accounting department, retiring after 35 years of service. A humble and private man, he relied upon his inner strength to guide him through life with simplicity and a sense of fulfillment. He was blessed with many admirable qualities and lots of loyal friends. He shared close relationships and special memories with his maternal cousins from Rome, especially their times spent at the Mohawk River. One of Nick’s greatest pleasures was enjoying a good cigar, and waxing his car. He was a knowledgeable automobile enthusiast and was meticulous in the maintenance of his own vehicles. He also bowled in an area league, and enjoyed casting a line in his favorite fishing spots. He was a sports spectator and an avid Yankees and Mets fan. He found pleasure in an eclectic mix of music, from classical to cool jazz, and was entertained by enduring movies like Casablanca and The Godfather. He was a communicant of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Nick is survived by his devoted sister and brother-in-law, Jeanine and Augustus “Gus” Givonetti of N. Utica; his beloved nieces and nephews, Raymond and Amy Givonetti of TX; Gary N. (who was also his Godson) and Angela Givonetti of Utica; Luciann Givonetti of Philadelphia; great-niece, Elise and Eric Pratt; great-nephew, Daniel Nicholas Givonetti; and his cousin, Robert Russo of Rochester. Nick’s family extends heartfelt appreciation to the Masonic Care Community of NY especially acknowledging the outstanding staff of the Troy and Albany households whose caretakers were compassionate and uplifting in their care; they allowed his stay with them to be as homelike as possible. Visitation will be held on Monday from 11-1 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in lieu of flowers may make a donation to the National Brain Tumor Society or to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Nicholas’ funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday afternoon at 1:00 from the funeral home and at 2:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Fr. Anthony P. LaFache with military honors conferred. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. "Nick, you will always be in our hearts and we will miss your earthly presence.”

Mr. Nicholas J. Motto

May 11, 1938 - September 9, 2011