Ronald R. DeBernardis

Mr. Ronald R. DeBernardis, age 71, of Utica, passed away on Monday, November 26, 2007 in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on September 5, 1936, Ronald was the son of the late Louis V. and Stella (Kuklinski) DeBernardis. He was raised and educated locally. On January 22, 1982 he married the former Tamara Kallaur with whom he shared a blessed union of 25 years. Ronald was a computer programmer for the General Electric Co. for 30 years at the French Rd. location, and later, with his knowledge, assisted the New York State Thruway Authority with the Y2K computer transition. Most recently, he worked as a computer programmer at Power Line Constructors Co. in Clinton. A likeable man, Ron was a very engaging individual who was well loved by everyone he met. He was an exemplary family man, and his loved ones were the center of his life. A parishioner of St. John of Kronstadt Church, Ron was the church treasurer for nearly 15 years, until the time of his passing. He also worked very closely with the warden of the church, Alex Kirushin who was also a dear friend to Ron. Ron is survived by his wife Tamara; his daughters, Cindy DeBernardis, Sandra Samel, Melanie DeBernardis, and Natalie DeBernardis; his sons, Master Sgt. David DeBernardis, USMC, Russell DeBernardis, and Michael “Mikey” DeBernardis. Always close to his heart was the memory of his son, Ronald DeBernardis, Jr., who preceded him in death on August 3, 2007. He also leaves his grandchildren, Vanessa McCurry, Danielle Samel, Sara and Zachary Paul, Cody DeBernardis, and Kennedy DeBernardis; his sisters and brother-in-law, Elaine and David Szalkowski of Utica, and Delores Critelli Obernesser of Utica; and his sister-in-law, Diane DeBernardis of Utica. At one time Ronald was wed to the former Helen Clyne who passed away on November 9, 2003. In addition, he leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, especially acknowledging Joseph Vatalaro, Andrea DeBernardis, Matthew Kallaur; his in-laws, Leonard and Barbara Kallaur of Utica, Rev. George and Tatiana Kallaur of NY, Eugene and Gail Kallaur of Guilford, CT, and Peter and Michelle Kallaur of Utica; and his many dear and cherished friends, especially Walt Marrotta. He was predeceased by his brothers, Robert DeBernardis, and Louis “Buddy” DeBernardis, Jr.; his brothers-in-law, Igor Kallaur, and Dr. Charles J. Obernesser; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Leonid and Leonila Kallaur. The family extends gratitude to Dr. Lance J. Brownstein, Dr. Thomas F. Ryan, Dr. Alicia M. Detraglia, Dr. Nabeel G. El-Amir, and Dr. Fayez F. Chahfe for all the care and attention rendered to Ronald. Thanks also to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. staff, particularly Navaz, Nadine, MaryAnn, Mary, and Bryan for their compassion and vigilance. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Ronald’s funeral service which will commence on Wednesday afternoon at 2:00 at St. John of Kronstadt Church, 1109 Conkling Ave. The family will receive visitors on Wednesday from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the church. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Ronald’s honor to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., or St. John of Kronstadt Church; envelopes will be available at the service. Burial service will commence on Thursday afternoon at 12:30 at the Church. Interment will immediately follow at the Holy Trinity Monastery Cemetery in Jordanville, NY. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Ronald R. DeBernardis

September 5, 1936 - November 26, 2007