Rocco A. Montesano

Mr. Rocco A. Montesano, age 94, of Utica, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2009 at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center surrounded with the love and support of his family. Born in Utica on October 27, 1915, Rocco was the son of the late Giuseppe and Filomena (DiLia) Montesano. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of World War II, he served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Army Air Force. On October 15, 1947, he married the former Victoria M. Amodio with whom he shared 59 years prior to her passing on April 1, 2007. He was a devoted husband and they shared a loving union during their many years together. Rocco retired from the U.S. Postal Service as a superintendent after 40 years of employment. He was selfless in his determination to support his loved ones, from his parents to his grandchildren. His family was the essence of his existence and he was steadfast in fulfilling his role as patriarch and provider. Rocco was well-read and self taught, and very proud of his Italian heritage and traditions. A Renaissance man, he held true to his heart a passion for the arts. He was talented in calligraphy and creating caricatures, and many of his works were on display at the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute. He was well known for his political cartoons as well as his caricatures, many appearing in our local newspaper. He was a die hard Yankees fan, and in his earlier days he excelled in the sport of baseball, advancing to a semi-professional status. He also played on a team with his fellow soldiers while in the U.S. Army Air Force. At one time, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus and for many years he served as a lector at his parish, the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Rocco is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Mary Ellen and Francis McDonough of Clinton. He cherished in his heart the memory of his son, Joseph N. Montesano, who passed away on March 15, 1992 at the age of 42, leaving behind Rocco’s daughter-in-law, Nancy. He also leaves his sons and daughters-in-law, Nicholas Paul and Kathy B. Montesano of New Hartford, Rocco A., Jr. and Jan Montesano of Glenville, and William Steven and Marilyn Cardinale Montesano of New Hartford; his grandchildren, Andrea McDonough, Dylan McDonough, Michael and Kristen Montesano, Gina Marie Montesano and Mary Andrecolich, Scott and Angela Montesano, Lauren Montesano, Marie Montesano, Amanda Montesano, and Marc Montesano; and his great-grandchildren, Joey, Andrew, and Casey. Survivors also include his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and his in-laws, Sister Mary Nicholas and Sister Margaret of Utica, Mary and Dr. Carl Marlow of Syracuse, and Jean and Frank Barletta of FL. He was predeceased by his brothers, Anthony J. Montesano, and Dr. Pasquale Montesano; and his sisters, Grace Montesano, Lena A. Montesano, Lucy Centolella, Rose M. Bonadio, and Josephine M. Paladino. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the entire staff of the Presbyterian Home for Central NY, especially the personnel of the Aspen and Maple wings and the rehabilitation staff for the care and professionalism rendered to Rocco during his stay. Visitation will be held Monday (today) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to the Alzheimer's Association in honor of his beloved wife Victoria; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Rocco's funeral service will commence on Tuesday afternoon at 12:00 from the funeral home and at 1:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum with Military Honors conferred. "Go Yankees! We now have a new angel in the outfield."

Rocco A. Montesano

October 27, 1915 - October 30, 2009