Mr. Vincent J. "Cheech" Pristera

UTICA/FRANKFORT – Mr. Vincent J. “Cheech” Pristera, age 90, passed away peacefully and was reunited with his beloved wife, Marie, on Monday, June 20, 2022. At the time of his passing, he was in the comfort and dignity of his daughter and son-in-law’s home with those he loved surrounding his bedside. Born to the late Anthony and Antoinette (Peluso) Pristera on March 13, 1932, Vinny attended local schools and spent the entirety of his life in Utica. He faithfully served his country in the U.S. Army National Guard and was stationed stateside from 1948-1950. On June 27, 1953, Vinny wed the former Marie Eadecola. Vinny simply adored Marie, his wife and his mainstay, and he never missed an opportunity to dote upon her. He was a devoted and successful provider, and they shared a beautiful life together for over 61 years until her passing on January 31, 2015. Vinny secured employment with the General Electric Company Radio Receiver Plant in the coil department. Here his meticulous and hardworking nature was recognized; he worked there for 32 years until the closing of that location. In his retirement years, he focused on his family and turned his fastidious work ethic to the upkeep of his home. He took great pride in keeping his house and grounds looking pristine. Vinny fiercely oversaw the needs of all those he loved. He always wanted everything to be well with his family, and never wanted his loved ones to wish for anything. Family was what it was all about for him. Vinny was their hero, their first love, and their confidante. He was a proud father, and he embraced the love of his children’s lives, which made their family even stronger. As life matured, he still kept the momentum and maintained being the focus of the family. When he became a Poppy and Grandpa, he was over the moon – his grandchildren renewed him. Once again, he became their love as well; he taught them great values and showered them with affection. They could do no wrong in his eyes! As grandparents, Vinny and Marie could not have been prouder of their grandchildren’s chosen vocations. When it came to the next generation, that of his great-grandchildren, he always wanted to be around them – the more noise, the better! To the very end, Vinny loved the house full of family and friends, and nothing distracted him from this. The chaos arose, and the food began to fill the table. Vinny’s will to live was noted in his constant presence and persona - he wanted things to be as normal as possible. He could be the most animated man, and his company was always welcomed. Vinny’s Italian heritage was deeply rooted; he honored it, he defended it, and he preserved it – that was “Cheech!” Vinny was a gentle man who never failed to think of others before himself. In fact, people would often say of him: “He would do anything for anybody.” A trustworthy and honorable man, Vinny was known for his compassion, humility, and generosity. His outstanding sense of humor never failed to bring smiles to people’s faces. He will certainly be remembered for his “one liner” and misinterpretations of popular phrases, always with the greatest regard. A true car enthusiast, Vinny appreciated the style and grace of automobiles. He kept his own vehicle immaculate and encouraged his children to follow his lead. His favorite line of manufacturing was the Ford Motor Company, and he favored the Lincoln style. Vinny was also a physically active man. He enjoyed taking walks with his wife five days a week. Always up for a good time, some of his best memories were of handicapping horse races and going to the casino. His talents in the kitchen were hard to match – he was a master of delicious family recipes, whipping them up with skill and love. Being reliable, dependable, and multi-faceted, Vinny was able to prepare, be present, and organize many church festivals and events. His active involvement all stemmed from his deep spirituality. Vinny is survived by his devoted daughter and son-in-law, Denise and James Giruzzi, with whom he resided, and his adored son and daughter-in-law, Vincent F. and Gina Pristera. Vinny was larger than life in the hearts of his grandchildren and their loves, Danielle and Ryan McEwen, James V. and Gianna Giruzzi; Brianna and Ryan Paparella, and Krista Pristera and Joseph Longo. Vinny held close the memory of his granddaughter, Ashley Nicole Pristera, who passed away on November 29, 1988. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren: twins Robert, and Giuliana “Giugu” McEwen; Audrina, and Mila Giruzzi; Domenica Longo; and Anthony Salvatore Paparella. Vinny was predeceased by his siblings and their spouses, Jennie and Fred Bachmann, Paul and Angeline Pristera, Lawrence “Larry” Pristera, and Carmen Pristera. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He had a very special relationship with his nephew Paulie Pristera and niece Lianne Nimey. During his life, Vinny was blessed with numerous cherished friends, including Tom Marrotta, Marie Corleto, Carla Giruzzi-Keena and Lou Montero, Janene Tirado, the Siracusa, Latella, and Ellis families, Anthony Spataro with whom he shared a bond that was so engaging, his aunt Helen Gerdano, and Mike Viti who was his “main man.” He joins his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Frank and Magdeline “Nellie” (Bottini) Eadecola; sister-in-law, Dolores Eadecola; and in-laws, Salvatore and Rena Siracusa, Sharon McEwen, and Francis “Beef” Giruzzi. Vinny’s family wishes to extend their gratitude to: Dr. Emile Wassel and his wonderful staff, especially Rebekah who was so attentive; Dr. Mathew Ulahannan, and Dr. Nicholas Qandah, physicians whose care for Vinny and his family was exceptional; Palliative Care and Hospice, who were instrumental in his final journey, especially Anne who secured their minds and offered guidance and comfort. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 28, 2022, from 4:00–7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Vincent’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at 11:00 at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery alongside his beloved wife, Marie, at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Vincent J. "Cheech" Pristera

March 13, 1932 - June 20, 2022