Rosemary J. (Clerrico) Gatto

Rosemary J. (Clerrico) Gatto, age 79, of N. Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 31, 2011 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on November 19, 1931, Rosemary was the daughter of the late Salvatore “Sam” and Rose (Graziano) Clerrico. Raised and educated locally, she was a 1949 graduate of T.R. Proctor High School and also furthered her studies at the Utica School of Commerce. At one time, she was married to Joseph S. Gatto who passed away on October 12, 2001. To that relationship she knew the blessings of her three cherished children. Many would remember Rosemary from the Utica City Court where she served as Deputy Traffic Clerk for over 30 years. She was well-suited for this position and enjoyed the camaraderie of her colleagues. She retired in the early 1990’s. A serene and sociable woman, Rosemary possessed beauty and was noted for her fashionable ways. She was a progressive thinker and an accomplished contemporary woman. She was a supportive mother who encouraged and respected her children, always catering to their culinary wishes which were vast. She recognized her ability to be a good friend and she enjoyed socializing with her friends at monthly dinners, prayer groups, and local artistic, theatrical, and musical performances. She herself was an ardent artist of watercolor paintings and attended classes at MWPAI; this talent was innate and developed in her childhood. She was spiritually renewed as a Eucharistic Minister, and tended to the altar of her parish with much reverence. Rosemary is survived by her daughters, Donna M. Gatto of Utica, and Lisa A. Gatto, of New York Mills; and her son, Joseph A. Gatto of CA. She also leaves her sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Michael J. Colacicco of Utica. She was also blessed with the companionship of her dogs, Annika (a therapy dog) and Roxanne (her baby girl). Also left to mourn her passing are her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law, Augustina Gussie” Brindisi. She was blessed with a host of friends, especially Sharon and Dick Raccioppa. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the nurses and staff of the Masonic Care Community of NY/Windom Household. They honored Rosemary as a family member during her stay. Thanks also to the personnel of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center Critical Care Unit who were attentive and comforting to Rosemary’s needs. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Rosemary’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Rosemary J. (Clerrico) Gatto

November 19, 1931 - October 31, 2011