Mr. Vito E. Nicotera

Mr. Vito E. Nicotera, age 96, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, December 12, 2016 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his family at his side. Born in Utica on November 13, 1920, Vito was the son of the late Salvatore and Agnes (Perin) Nicotera. He was a graduate of Utica Free Academy/Class of 1938 and in more recent years he was involved with the UFA Alumni Association. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Vito honorably served his country during World War II stationed in England where he repaired naval craft. While in England his corps resided at the Britannia Royal Naval College at Dartmouth. On November 29, 1941 he married the former Bernice A. Beratta with whom he shared 62 years in a marriage of their era. Bernice passed away on September 24, 2004, Vito held her memory close to his heart. Vito worked for numerous companies in his areas of expertise as a welder, sheet metal worker, steamfitter, and licensed plumber. He later pursued his second calling as the Superintendent of Buildings & Grounds for the Utica City School District, a position that brought him the respect and endearment of many peers over the many years he served the school system. Vito valued the virtues of hard work and was the very essence of a gentleman. He was the epitome of generosity and kindness, and in turn, many were motivated to do their very best so Vito would not be disappointed. He was fair-minded and very facile at conversation. He was also impeccable in his attire yet he loved the comfort of his cardigan sweaters. Most memorable were summer get-togethers at his camp at Alexandria Bay and relaxing in his “favorite” lounge chair on the front porch, especially when neighbor kids Lizzie and Eddie would stop in for hugs. He adored his grandchildren and when they were growing up he couldn’t do enough for them. He was so proud of them, and their children, and looked forward to their visits and sharing common activities. He was also fond of fishing on the St. Lawrence, hunting at the Nicotera camp; which was always well stocked with Nicotera’s fresh baked bread and brew, and friendly card games with his uncles and cousins. Those were legendary times that held the greatest moments of laughter and camaraderie. In his retirement years, Vito and Bernice found themselves frequenting the fairways engaged in the game of golf. He also enjoyed many trips, hobbies, and lots of love. For Vito, it really was a wonderful life. Vito was a member of the New York States Association for Superintendents of School Buildings & Grounds where he served in numerous offices and attended the annual benevolent conventions. He held a longtime membership with the Local Plumbers Union, and was a faithful member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He practiced his Catholic faith as a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel//Blessed Sacrament Parish. Vito is survived by his sons and daughter-in-law, Richard J. Nicotera of Thendara NY, and Robert V. and Lynne Nicotera of Massachusetts; his grandchildren, Richard J. Jr. and Tracy Nicotera, Thomas R. Nicotera, William J. and Anna Nicotera; Mark S. and Jennifer Nicotera, Aimee L. Nicotera, Andrew R. and Sandra Nicotera, and Molly and Robert Sorbello; and his great-grandchildren, Alex Vito Nicotera, Sophia, and Liam Nicotera, Chloe, and Ruby Nicotera, and Luke Nicotera. Being the eldest of four children, Vito will be missed by his surviving siblings, Carmella Dee, Katherine “Kathy” Aubain, and John and Ruth Nicotera; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins. A special note of appreciation is offered to Emina and Mehmed Sabic and their son Dino for the friendship and neighborly concern. He was predeceased by his in-laws, Congetta “Connie” and Martin Forte, Frank and Katherine Beratta, and Carmen and Mary Beratta. The family extends a genuine thank you to Dr. Christopher Clark, an incredibly kind physician and friend, and to his nurse Jean Bombace for her concern; and the physicians and staff of the ER and ICU at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for their compassion and expertise. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 507 Kent Street, Utica, NY 13501, or online at: www.cabvi.org; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Vito’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. Committal services and Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Vito E. Nicotera

November 13, 1920 - December 12, 2016