Vincenza M. "Pinky" Beratta

Vincenza M. “Pinky” Beratta, of Vernon, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 22, 2011 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center after a brief illness. She was embraced by the love and support of her family at the time of her passing. Born in Utica, Vincenza was the daughter of the late Peter and Mary (Bianco) Beratta. Raised and educated locally, she was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School and received her Bachelors Degree in Education from SUNY Oneonta. Vinnie began her teaching career at Utica Free Academy. She then taught for a short period of time in Pleasantville, NY and in 1966 she returned to the Utica City School District dedicating her life to teaching at Christopher Columbus and Albany Street schools until her retirement. In addition to her teaching career, her innate affection for animals drew her to being the owner and operator of Kandywycke Kennels. She was the source of hundreds of purebred miniature poodles, dozens of which were champions.She devoted over 30 years to her breeding skills and knowledge which were nationally renowned. Vinnie was an inspirational teacher, a devoted mentor, a wonderful daughter, sister, aunt, and a special friend to many. She reached out to others around her with warmth and sincerity, whether you were a loved one, fellow professional, or simply a person in need she had the ability to connect. When it came to hospitality, she was masterful; there was always an abundance of food, and she had an obvious desire to entertain with a flair. Vinnie was a member of the Poodle Club of America and the Retired Teacher’s Association. She was a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Vinnie was predeceased by her parents who resided with her and whom she cared for with great devotion in their final years. She is survived by three siblings and their spouses, Connie Inserra of Fayetteville, Joseph and Michele Beratta of Stuart, FL, and Maria and Robert Sfeir of New Hartford; nieces and nephews, Frank Inserra, Patricia Inserra, Peter and Dena Beratta, Marlaine and Matthew Mc Mechen, Joseph Beratta, Jr., Fred and Kate Sfeir, and Lenora and Joseph D’Apice; several great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, her seven beloved poodles; as well as many close and devoted friends too numerous to mention. Vinnie was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Dominick “Dick” Inserra. Vinnie’s family would like to extend special gratitude to all of the people who have lovingly accepted her seven beloved poodles into their homes. An additional special thank you goes out to Brian Matt and Doris Piper, and the staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical center for their care and compassion. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 3-6 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Memorial contributions in Vinnie’s honor may be considered to the St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish Memorial Fund or to the Rome Humane Society in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Pinky’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta.