Mr. Robert "Bob" Beratta

Mr. Robert “Bob” Beratta, age 79, a resident of Utica and more recently of Westmoreland, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 7, 2015 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on September 23, 1936, Robert was the son of the late Louis and Molly (Borelli) Beratta. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1955. He also attended a design school in New York City. He exchanged wedding vows with the former Jeanette Bonacci; the character of their marriage was built over their lifetime of 51 years, and Bob has held her in his heart since her passing on March 5, 2010. Bob was a creative Advertising & Design professional. He held positions with various companies including Wayne Drug, Dey Brothers Department Store, Howland’s Department Store, Webb’s Men’s Store, and P.J. Green, Inc. He also worked alongside his wife at the Italian Princess Restaurant in Old Forge and he was employed by the Law firm of Petrone & Petrone. During his last vocational venture, he worked as a driver for the ARC of Oneida and Lewis County. All of Bob’s career endeavors sustained his goal of serving the needs of others. Although he was vocal and opinionated about his convictions, Bob’s true character was reflected in his gentlemanly nature and respectful manner. He was genuine and looked for authenticity in others, an attribute that defined him and set him apart. Bob’s best blessing in life was the bestowal of love from his wife, children, and grandchildren who affectionately knew him as “Boboo”. He also honored his nieces, nephews, and in-laws. He was well known by many local businesses as a savvy shopper who knew a good deal when he saw it. He enjoyed the Turner Classic Movie station and applied his artistic affinity in appreciating the aesthetics of gardens and landscaping. Bob embraced the challenging episodes of his life as lessons, always gaining strength from his steady progress. He nurtured his Catholic faith through many different venues: in himself, his beliefs, and his kindnesses which he offered up to the Lord. He honored the Blessed Mother who guided him, and he prayed the rosary for the intentions and wellbeing of his loved ones. He was very inspired by the teachings of Pope Francis and was hopeful for the future of the Catholic Church. He volunteered his time to the lunch program at St. Joseph & St. Patrick Church and attended a rosary prayer group at the Salerno’s and the Sullivan’s homes. He was a faithful parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Bob is survived by his daughters, Jeanine M. Beratta of Worcester, MA, and Melanie A. Hanson of Camelot Village in Westmoreland. He was predeceased by his son-in-law, Jeff S. Hanson on June 14, 2015. He also leaves his grandchildren, Gabrielle Hanson and fiance, Daniel Reaves, and Jeffrey M. Hanson; his cherished and adored nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Anne Beratta who was a great support to Bob, Dr. John C. and Annette Bonacci, Eugene Jr. and Pam Bonacci, and Roseann Chiellino; and friends John Sullivan, Joe Barberio, and cousin Joe Beratta with whom he shared a great closeness. He was predeceased by his brother, Louis “Butch” Beratta; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Eugene N. and Rose (Derella) Bonacci; and his cousin, Francine Talerico. The family is grateful to Dr. Clifford Soults and his physician assistant Courey, and Dr. Greg Orlando for their compassionate practice of medicine; the nurses and staff of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center 1st Floor East, and Allen-Calder Wing for their outstanding commitment to caring for Bob and his family; and Fr. James Cesta for his prayers and visit. In keeping with Bob’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Robert’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday afternoon at 12:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. The family will receive visitors at the end of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, please consider memorial donations in Bob’s honor to The ARC/Oneida-Lewis County Chapter online at http://www.thearcolc.org; envelopes will be available at the service. Inurnment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Robert "Bob" Beratta

September 2, 1936 - December 7, 2015