Philip J. Chieco

Mr. Philip J. Chieco, age 80, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at the Masonic Care Community of NY with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on October 28, 1926, Philip was the son of the late Leonardo A. and Jennie (Salamido) Chieco. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School. He pursued his collegiate studies at the State University of N.Y. at Oswego where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, and continued graduate work at Syracuse University. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he was stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict. On August 19, 1950 he married the former Delores Veytovich with whom he shared 57 years. They were best friends and were blessed with a wonderful family life which was so gratifying. Philip was exemplary in his lifework as an Industrial Arts teacher with the Utica City School District. He will be best remembered as a good natured teacher and a dedicated mentor to his students. Phil was a credit to his profession. He viewed all life’s challenges as character building opportunities, always upheld a positive outlook. He was an inspiration to his family, friends, and co-workers. He took time for each of the responsibilities in his life and he did so with a suave and confident demeanor. He was most proud of the accomplishments of his children, especially in the area of their education. During his leisure time he enjoyed wine making, gardening, traveling, vacationing in Florida, and fishing with his son Phil. He was blessed with vocal abilities and sang with Il Coiro Italiano. He was a member of the Utica Teachers Association, and the International Association of Machinists. He was a parishioner of St. Agnes Church. Philip is survived by his wife Delores; his daughter and son-in-law, Michele A. and Ed Szwedo of North Carolina; his sons and daughters-in-law, Leonard R. and Susan Chieco of Hopewell Junction, NY, and Philip D. and Eve Chieco of Clifton Park, NY; and his adored and cherished grandchildren, David, Cheryl; Kelly, Nicholas, Brian, Kevin; Philip, and Gregory. He was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Paul L. and Ruth Chieco; and his sister and brother-in-law, Julia and Frank Cecere. In keeping with Philip’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his Memorial Mass of Christian Burial which will commence on Friday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Agnes Church. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions in Philip’s honor to the Masonic Care Community of NY; envelopes will be available at the service. Interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Philip J. Chieco

October 28, 1926 - September 25, 2007