Thomas T. "Tom" Graziano

Mr. Thomas T. "Tom" Graziano, age 86, of Utica, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 10, 2009 at the St. Luke's Home with the love and support of his family. Born in Utica on January 10, 1923, Thomas was the son of the late Philip Anthony and Lucia (Pella) Graziano. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, he served his country during World War II stationed in the Pacific Theater of Operations aboard the U.S.S. Mindanao, and he survived the November 10, 1944 ordeal when the Mindanao was seriously damaged by the explosion of a nearby ammunition ship. On April 24, 1994 he married the former Ann Ducato; as a couple, they were wonderful companions and good friends. Tom and Ann had much in common, and their meeting and marriage occurred at a time in their lives when they appreciated each other in so many ways. Tom was employed by the Griffiss Air Force Base as an exterminator, retiring in the late 1970’s. A quiet and peaceful man, he honored his family by caring for his mother for many years. At home, he was a great “fitness” cook, following the recipes of the Food Channel and adding his own dimensions to the dishes, making them even more delicious. He was a physically fit man and a member of the Y.M.C.A. for many years. He enjoyed walking through Proctor Park escorted by his dogs, “Buddy and AT”. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, 3rd degree. An avid outdoorsman, he pursued the sports of hunting, fishing, and boating. He appreciated his camp at the St. Lawrence River, which was to him a place of peace and serenity. He was a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. The Graziano and LaColla families at this time mourn the loss of Tom’s sister, Mrs. Mary L. (Graziano) LaColla, who passed away on Monday, December 14, 2009. Tom is survived by his wife, Ann; his sisters and brother-in-law, Elizabeth “Betty” and Thomas Marsh of NJ, and Philomena Stoio, and Lucy V. Berardino, both of New Hartford. Survivors also include his many nieces and nephews, especially acknowledging Sam F. Berardino III; his great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Joseph and Angie Ducato, and Philip Ducato. He also knew the comfort and companionship of his loyal canine, “Buddy”. He was predeceased by his brother, Philip A. "Tony” Graziano; his sister, Sandra Graziano; and his in-laws, Louis J. Stoio, Sam F. Berardino, Jr., Vincent C. LaColla, Providence “Provy” and Anthony N. Coromato, and Felma Ducato. The family is grateful to the staff of the St. Luke’s Home for their professional and compassionate care of Tom which made Ann feel comfortable. Visitation for Tom and his sister, Mary, will be shared on Saturday from 11:00-1:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St. corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Tom’s honor to the Stevens-Swan Humane Society; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Funeral services will commence on Saturday afternoon at 1:00 from the funeral home and at 2:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where a Mass of Christian Burial for both will be celebrated, with Military Honors conferred on Tom. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

Thomas T. "Tom" Graziano

January 10, 1923 - December 10, 2009