Salvatore L. "Greenie" Cirillo

Mr. Salvatore L. “Greenie” Cirillo, age 89, of both New Hartford and Palm Bay, Florida, passed away on Saturday, October 7, 2006 in FL. Born in Utica on September 6, 1917, Salvatore was the son of the late Joseph and Margharita (Centola) Cirillo. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of the military, he served 2 tours of duty with the U.S. Navy: the 1st ended in 1940, and the 2nd discharge was in 1946. On January 17, 1953 he married the former Elizabeth Gacek with whom he shared a respectful union of 31 years prior to her passing on May 28, 1984. Their relationship knew the blessing of their children and family life. Mr. Cirillo was a professional machinist with the General Electric Co. for 23 years, the position from which he retired. Salvatore was proud of being a life member and 4th degree of the Knights of Columbus, his affiliation with the Order of the Alhambra, and of the American Legion, Post #229. One of Salvatore’s preferred pastimes was music, and he will be remembered by many Uticans for his talent and virtuosity as a trumpeter with the La Banda Rossa, or Red Band. In Florida, he played with the Echo Entertaining Band. A ‘Mr. Fix-it’, he had a calculating mind and was able to fashion any part that was needed for a repair; and he was creative in his designs. He took on the sport of golf, and favored his league games with the Knights of Columbus. An honest man in his convictions, he parented his children with a wish for their well being. He especially took pleasure in his years as a grandfather, and supported his grandson Andy in all his endeavors. Salvatore is survived by his daughter, Kathleen Cirillo and her fiancé, Leo Link, of Marcy; three sons and daughters-in-law, Carl A. and Cindy Cirillo of Vernon Center, NY, Nicholas P. and Patti A. Cirillo of Yorkville, and James A. Cirillo of Palm Bay, FL.; and a grandson, Andrew N. Cirillo. His survivors also include a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, especially acknowledging Phylie Bardini and her husband, Agar; and his in-laws, Stan Gacek, John Gacek, Casmir Gacek, and John Jones. He leaves many dear friends, especially remembering his “Wednesday coffee group”. He was predeceased by a brother and sister-in-law, Alexander and Florence Cirillo; and his special friend, Linda Luciano, in 2002. Kathleen, Carl, Nicholas and James extend their heartfelt appreciation to their brother, Jim, for the forbearance and honor of being his primary caretaker. They are so appreciative of the comfort he brought into their Dad’s life --- the coordinating, communicating, and devotion were impressive to all. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 4-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The American Legion Post #229 will assemble at 5:30 for ritualistic services. The Knights of Columbus will assemble at 6:30 for a Prayer Service. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, memorial donations in Salvatore’s memory may be made to the Knights of Columbus; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Mr. Cirillo’s funeral will commence on Thursday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at Our Lady of the Rosary Church in New Hartford, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with full Military Honors. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Salvatore L. "Greenie" Cirillo

September 6, 1917 - October 7, 2006