Sandra "Santa" (Fusco) DeCrescenzo

Mrs. Sandra “Santa” (Fusco) DeCrescenzo, age 89, of Utica, passed away on Friday, December 16, 2011 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and support of her family. Born in Utica on March 2, 1922, Sandra was the daughter of the late Pasquale “Patsy” and Catherine (DeFazio) Fusco. She was raised and educated in Utica schools. At one time she was married to Raymond Amico whose relationship led to the blessing of two children. On July 31, 1960 she wed Arcangelo “Dick” DeCrescenzo with whom she shared 24 years prior to his passing on November 25, 1984; as a couple, they shared common interests that made for an enjoyable, compatible life. Sandy worked at the Broadacres Skilled Nursing Facility as a Nurse’s Aide for 14 years, retiring in 1972. Although she worked outside the home, providing for her family at home was the source of strength and comfort to her. She sacrificed as a loving mother, was an adored grandmother and a spunky great-grandmother. Born an independent woman, Sandy interlaced this quality with a sincere compassion. She gained great satisfaction from being able to help others which she did in so many different ways. Over the years, the people she touched reciprocated the mutual love and respect to her as well. She felt that, all in all, it had been a wonderful life --- filled with family, faith, and compassionate friends. She was a consummate cook, a bingo buff, and a faithful fan of the New York Yankees who would accept no interruptions during a game. She also enjoyed the thrills of games of chance. She embraced the North Utica Senior Center, a place where she shared her talents through her dedicated position. She thoroughly enjoyed the center as a social outlet and a place where she rooted many wonderful friendships. The blessings of God upon her life were found in her spirituality and devotion to St. Anthony. Sandy is survived by her daughter, Rosann McKinney of FL; her son and daughter-in-law, Joseph and Suzanne Amico of New Hartford; her grandchildren, Denise and Clif Burroughs, and Bridget and Robert Dodig, all of FL, and Michael and Eugenia Amico of New Hartford; her great-grandchildren, Krysta and Travis Carter; Kari Gerillo; Michaela Dodig; Ashley Amico; and Lindsey Amico; as well as a great-great-grandson, Kale Hendry-Gerrillo. In addition, she leaves her sisters and brother-in-law, Mary C. Mancuso of New Hartford, Rose and Edward DeSanctis of Utica, Katherine Fondario of Sauquoit, and Jean Baldwin of MA; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law, Ann E. Fusco and Mary R. Fusco, and special friends Michelle Guantana, Ann Henika, and Betty Bellinger. She was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Carmella and Walter Reese; her brothers, Salvatore A. “Sam” Fusco and Anthony J. Fusco; and her in-laws, Paul S. Mancuso, Russell Baldwin, and Carmen Fondario; as well as her niece Regina Delaney. The family offers a special thank you to the Charles T. Sitrin Nursing Home, especially those of the Magnolia Wing, for the outstanding care they provided during her time of need. Sandra’s wishes were for her loved ones to remember her in a favorite memory. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday, January 14, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Thomas Catholic Church in New Hartford where her Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. David Sears. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the Mass. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Sandra "Santa" (Fusco) DeCrescenzo

March 2, 1922 - December 16, 2011