Salvatore R. "Sal" Spina

Mr. Salvatore Rosario Spina, Jr., age 58, formerly of Utica and more recently a resident of Durham NC, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 15, 2006 at his home. His family was by his side at the time of his passing. Born in Utica on April 16, 1947, Salvatore was the son of the late Salvatore J. “Bishop” and Mary (Giglio) Spina. He was raised here and received his education in the Utica City Schools. Sal proudly served his country in the US Marine Corps. He was joined in marriage with the former Lucy Almond with whom he has shared a loving union of 18 years, one that has been filled with compassion and mutual respect. Salvatore possessed great strength of character and a deep sense of family, qualities which made him respected and honored as the patriarch of his loved ones. Mr. Spina was a life member of the American Legion, Stars and Stripes Chapter #82. Locally he was a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Church, and he was active with the Knights of Columbus, Council #189. Mr. Spina is survived by his wife, Lucy; his children, Kimberley Palladino and her husband Joseph of Durham NC, Salvatore A. Spina and his wife Joya of Chapel Hill NC, Michael P. Spina, Anthony R. Spina, both of Durham; and his former wife, Karlene K. Spina, also of Durham; and his grandchildren, Marissa Spina and Martina Palladino. He is also survived by a sister, Rosemary Tarnowski of Utica; his nephews, Michael Talerico and Edward Tarnowski; a special aunt, Jennie Miliellie of Utica; many cousins with special mention of Hank and Beverly DiPerna, Phillip DiPerna and his late wife Shirley, Florence Testa, Antoinette and Anthony Carbone, Frank and Jo Marie Faccioli, Lorraine and Mike Yozzo, and Marie and Paul McGukin; his special friends, James and Charmayne Talerico, Benny Rappa Jr., Joseph and Lucille Amarosa, Raymond Tantillo, the Carcone Family, the Borruso Family; and his “adopted” son, Dr. Gopi Vallabhaneni. In addition, Sal will be missed by numerous relatives, dear friends, and “a few good men.” In keeping with the family’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Mr. Spina’s Memorial Mass which will be celebrated on Monday morning at 11:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Church. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Salvatore R. "Sal" Spina

April 16, 1947 - March 15, 2006