Samuel J. Maneen

Mr. Samuel J. Maneen, age 86, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 20, 2009 in the privacy and comfort of his home. Born in Frankfort, NY on September 6, 1922, Samuel was the son of the late Anthony and Veda (Gelose) Maneen. He was raised and educated in Frankfort. On October 5, 1957 he married the former Antonia “Antoinette” Esposito with whom he shared 51 years in a true partnership; they were inseparable and always together. Enjoyable moments were spent together playing cards and gardening. Sam worked for the United States Postal Service in the Main Office as a mail handler and processor, retiring after more than 25 years of service. As a loving husband and father, his family was an important part of his life. An agile and active man, he was a smooth dancer and simply amazing on the dance floor. He loved music, and his favorite song was “Unforgettable”. He was known to remark that “I don’t know what happens, but when I hear music everything goes haywire…” He also followed sports and was the ultimate Yankees fan, watching all their games. Sam was a gentle, giving, kind-hearted, selfless human being who never hurt a soul. Although he was quiet and reserved, he had a witty way with one-liners, and a great laugh. He always advocated the adage, “Tomorrow is another day”. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Sam is survived by his wife, Antoinette, currently a resident of the Presbyterian Home; his daughter and son-in-law, Luciann M. and Robert W. Gould of W. Frankfort; and his grandchildren, all of whom possess a part of Sam’s gentle soul in them, Joshua Diliberto of Charlotte, NC, Bryan Diliberto of Latham, NY, and David Gould of W. Frankfort. Survivors also include his brother and sister-in-law, Anthony and Rosalie Maneen of NH; his sister-in-law, Carmelita Esposito of Utica; many nieces, nephews, especially Tony Esposito of Utica who took the time to visit Uncle Sam and share his heart with him. He also leaves his furry feline companion, Sandy, who he truly adored. He was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Nick and Betsy Maneen; and his in-laws, Vincent A. Esposito, and Thomas and Jean Esposito. The family is grateful to Sam’s caregiver, Lynda Sypek who willingly and devotedly cared for Sam for four years; she was very compassionate, loving, and concerned for Sam’s well-being. Thanks also to the Utica Police Department and the Utica Fire Department for their professionalism. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Sam’s honor to the Stevens-Swan Humane Society; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Sam’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Sunday afternoon at 4:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. Anthony LaFache officiating. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Samuel J. Maneen

September 6, 1922 - August 20, 2009