Mr. Robert F. "Bob" Falvo

Mr. Robert F. “Bob” Falvo, age 91, passed away on Monday, November 26, 2012 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with the love and support of his devoted family. Robert was born in Utica on November 30, 1920, the son of the late Frank R. and Bettina (Infusino) Falvo. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. On June 26, 1943 he married his childhood sweetheart, the former Elvira Muoio with whom he shared 69 years; Bob and Elvira lived a wonderful life, complemented by strong family ties, many mutual friendships, and the camaraderie of their community. Bob was blessed with an innate sales ability which was evident as he pursued his career. He was associated with several well-known firms within the wholesale wine and spirits business. At one time, he was also affiliated with the wholesale grocery industry. Charismatic and charming, he had a great rapport with people, and was never happier than when he was “out and about” in his beloved city. He heralded a great pride in being a native Utican, and he honored his Italian heritage. The rich history of his city and his vast political contributions were the driving forces behind his leadership. He was a staunch Democrat and contributed significantly to the Utica Democratic Committee, the Municipal Housing Authority where he had served as Vice-Chairman as well as Chairman, the Utica Common Council to which he was elected President, appointed chairman of the Utica City Planning Board, and was involved in County Legislative issues. Civically and socially, Bob served on various committees including the Oneida County Muscular Dystrophy Association, the Utica Convention and Visitors’ Bureau in the capacity of President, the Comity Club, the former Sons of Italy, and various charity organizations. He was an avid golfer, and he held memberships throughout the years with numerous local golf clubs. He was a parishioner of Historic Old St. John’s Church. Bob is survived by his wife, Elvira; his daughter, Judy A. Falvo and her husband John Sullivan of FL; his son, Ken Falvo of Utica; and the cherished memories of his son, Bobby Falvo, and his daughter, Barbara Casatelli, both who preceded him in death and will welcome him with open arms. In addition to honor his memory are his son-in-law, Ron Casatelli of New Hartford; affectionately known as Pop to his grandchildren, Peter and Melissa (Smith) Casatelli, Christina Casatelli and Tony D’Alessandro; Christopher Putrello; and Jackson Sullivan; and his great-grandchildren, Leah Rose, P.J., and Cole; nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws which include members of the Dote and Battelene families; and his dear and precious friends, Joseph and Rosalie Colacicco. He was predeceased by his sister, Lelia Falvo, and his brother, Norman R. Falvo. “I’ve lived a full and active life, and in the words of Frank Sinatra … I did it my way”. The family is grateful to the staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center for their many kindnesses and outstanding care. In an intimate and private gathering, Robert’s family bid their farewells at the time of his passing. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Friday morning (in observance of the day of his birth) at 10:00 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John Buehler. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Regional Cancer Center in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available at the service. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. The Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. is providing the guidance in lighting the path for the Falvo family in commemorating Robert’s life.