Philip R. Castronovo

Mr. Philip R. Castronovo, age 69, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 15, 2011 at the Masonic Care Community of NY. Born in Bagheria, Province of Palermo, Sicily on December 8, 1941, Philip was the son of the late Anthony and Dorotea (Scaglione) Castronovo. In 1950, along with his family, he came to the U.S. where he was raised and educated. Phil proudly served stateside in the U.S. Army. Gifted with a natural talent, he rapidly rose to success and fame as a funny car driver. He was an NHRA car racer on the national circuit where he was sponsored by the family concern Custom Body – Utica Flash, as well as other national sponsors. A 1971 World Champion, he was inducted into the National Racers Hall of Fame. He shared in this career endeavor until 1973. Phil was also an extremely talented cook – a gift he inherited from his father. He owned and operated Novo’s Pizzeria where he was known as “second to none” for his pizza and chicken wings, which he introduced to the Utica area. Phil was an extremely devoted family man and was always attentive to the important moments in the lives of his nieces and nephews and when he became a father himself he became a selfless man. This was a phase of his life Phil was most proud of. Philip is survived by his daughter, Tiffany Lynn Castronovo-Falta of FL; his sons, Ryan Anthony Castronovo of Las Vegas, NV; and Philip R. Jr. & Courtney Castronovo of Verona; his step-son, David Abounader of Las Vegas, NV; grandchildren, Juliana, Alyssa and Camilla; Philip R. II and Nicolina. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Kenny. Also left to mourn his passing are his brothers and sisters-in-law, Fred J. & Jeanne Castronovo of New Hartford, Victor and Vicki Castronovo of Utica, and Connie A. Castronovo of Marcy. His brother, John Castronovo, passed away on July 7th of this year. Philip is survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and a large circle of wonderful friends. He was predeceased by his beloved niece, Dana Lynn Castronovo. Philip’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the entire Bronx Household of the Masonic Care Community of NY, especially Tejahn and Judee, for their special patience and love for him. Gratitude is also extended to Father Anthony LaFache and Msgr. Francis J. Willenburg for their prayers and spiritual support. The family will honor and celebrate Philip’s life in a private gathering. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Tuesday afternoon at 3:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Military Honors. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the mass. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Philip R. Castronovo

December 8, 1941 - October 15, 2011