Sandy J. "Red" Cardinale

Mr. Sandy J. “Red” Cardinale, age 82, of Utica, passed away on Thursday, February 15, 2007, in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Islin, Pennsylvania on April 15, 1924, Red was the son of the late Sisto and Florence (Petrucci) Cardinale. He also knew the love and guidance of Mr. and Mrs. Rossi and their daughters of Utica. On November 26, 1953 he married the former Rose M. Potenza who passed away on June 17, 2002. As two people who were well suited to one another, Red and Rose shared a loving union of almost 50 years. They valued the preciousness of family that exist to this day which are examples to their daughter and her family. During his working life, Red was a route man for Wonder Bread and Blue Ribbon Cakes. He was also well-suited for the retail world and was a car salesman for Koerner Ford, Cater Lincoln, and Dodge City. As an “honest car salesman”, he loved people and strived to please his customers. Red enjoyed the last stage of his working career as an aid with Ryder and Birnie Bus Company. He was pleased to share his personality with the young adults and children he served. He would also be remembered by many as the “coat check attendant” at Alfredo’s Banquet Specialists. A dedicated family man, Red was an open, loving, care-free spirit with a unique and memorable sense of humor. For leisure entertainment he enjoyed the excitement of chance at the off-track-betting lounge, and old time television series on channel 37. He also took personal pleasure in fishing, especially during the years at his camp at White Lake, and the many memories of family gatherings there. He was a parishioner of St. Agnes Church. Red is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Florence A. and Thomas S. DeSimone of Utica; his adored granddaughter, Amanda Nicole DeSimone; and his companion with whom he shared much happiness, Dorene Silano of Utica. Also surviving are his nieces and nephews, especially acknowledging Jack Potenza and family, Peter and MaryKay Capponi, Jack Capponi and family, Tom and Sharon Allen, Brenda Osborne, and Joanie Roberts; his great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, including Ann Hicks and family, and friends, Mary Maio and family, and Marilyn and Richard Wester. He was predeceased by his brothers, Angelo Cardinale, and Frank “Blondie” Cardinale; his sisters, Pat Ernenwein, Mary Cardinale, Agnes Saraceno, Elaine Merry, and Betty Romano; and his in-laws, Nicholas and Madeline Potenza. He also shared his life with his son-in-law’s father, Sam “The Barber” DeSimone, a dear friend who preceded him in death. Sincere thanks are extended to Dr. Sudershan K. Dang, a friend and physician, Dr. Atul Butala, the Central NY Cardiology Group, the nurses and staff of the 4th and 6th floors of Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, the Rehabilitation Dept. at the Heritage Health Care Center, and the dedicated staff of Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., especially Janice, Roseann, Irene, and MaryAnn. All of Red’s caregivers offered quality care with much compassion and concern. Visitation will be held Sunday (today) from 4-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions in Red’s honor to the American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Mr. Cardinale’s funeral will commence on Monday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Sandy J. "Red" Cardinale

April 15, 1924 - February 15, 2007