Ralph J. Eannace, Sr., DPM

Ralph J. Eannace, Sr., DPM, age 92, of Proctor Boulevard, passed away on Sunday, May 15, 2011 at his home. He was born in Utica on May 22, 1918, the son of the late Leo and Rosina (Scala) Eannace. He received his early education at Bleecker and Brandegee schools, and then at Utica Free Academy. He enrolled at the Utica Collegiate Center of Syracuse University and earned his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine in 1945 at what is now the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. As a life-long learner, he was awarded Diplomate status by the American Board of Ambulatory Foot Surgery in 1980 and Diplomate status by the International College of Podiatric Laser Surgery in 1983. Ralph married Althea Mary Phillips, Attorney at Law, on June 10, 1946 at St. George’s Episcopal Church. They joyfully celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary in 2010. Dr. Eannace is remembered for his distinguished podiatric medicine practice through which he brought the most innovative and advanced approaches and techniques to Upstate New York, for the comfort and care of his thousands of patients. Having been raised in a family that embraces community service and responsibility, he dedicated himself to service for sixteen years on the Utica Board of Education, over twenty-five years on the Board of Trustees and Advisory Boards of the New York College of Podiatric Medicine and its affiliate, Foot Clinics of New York. He served as a Preceptor for the Ohio College of Podiatry. He was an active member of the Cornhill Youth Association for over twelve years, during which time he sponsored their Little League team. He served as a member of the Vestry and as a Warden of St. George’s Episcopal Church. He is also remembered for establishing scholarships at Utica College, the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, and Mohawk Valley Community College. As a family anchor, friend, podiatric practitioner, and community advocate, he filled his actions with heart, humility, integrity, and humor. He was a gentle and generous humanitarian who has been honored by the American Diabetes Association and the Women’s Employment and Resource Center, and was awarded the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by the College of Podiatric Medicine. He was a life-long member of the Tau Phi Zeta Fraternity. Survivors include his beloved wife, Althea; their children, Maryrose Eannace, Lark and Robert Patterson, Robin and Dr. Richard O’Brien, and Ralph Jr. and Laura Eannace; his grandchildren, Tyson E. Lazzaro and his wife Jennifer Newton, Althea E. Lazzaro; Christopher R. Eshleman; Adam E. & Katie A. Ullman, Andrew J. Ullman, Caitlin A. Ullman, Richard Garrett O’Brien; Nicole M. Taylor, Sarah A. Eannace, and Lillian C.R. Eannace; and his great grandson, Clyde E. Taylor, III. He cherished in his heart the memory of his grandson, Daniel L. Eshleman who preceded him in death. Also mourning his passing are his dear sister, Gloria Mary Infusino; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law, Virginia Eannace. Ralph was blessed with many dear friends and associates throughout his lifetime. He was predeceased by his brothers and sister-in-law, Carmine V. and Nancy (Pacciarelli) Eannace, and Salvatore J. Eannace, Esq.; his brother-in-law, Vincent R. Infusino, Sr., and his son-in-law, Lewis E. Ullman, Esq. The Eannace family wishes to express a sincere thank you to all those who provided comfort and care during this transitional journey. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 3:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. All are respectfully welcome to join the Eannace family for Ralph’s Memorial Mass of Christian Burial which will be held on Friday afternoon at 1:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes with Rev. Joseph Salerno officiating. In addition, the family will receive visitors at the church at the conclusion of the service. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home and the church service for contributions in support of established area scholarships.

Ralph J. Eannace, Sr., DPM

May 22, 1918 - May 15, 2011