Vito A. Galligano

Mr. Vito A. Galligano, age 84, of Rome, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 19, 2006 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Born in Rome on May 27, 1921, Vito was the son of the late Michael and Elena (Coviello) Galligano. He was raised and educated here. A proud veteran of World War II, he served with the U.S. Army in a unit that was so closely bonded that he kept in touch with some of his army buddies throughout his life. On June 28, 1948, he was joined in marriage with the former Mary Comis with whom he shared a blessed and devoted union of almost 30 years prior to her passing on April 18, 1978. Mr. Galligano was a longtime and loyal employee of Rome Copper and Brass where he provided conscientious service as the chief billing clerk in the shipping department, the position from which he retired. Vito was a wonderful husband and a loving father. In all aspects of his life, family, social, and occupational, he was a deeply caring person, well known and respected for his generous spirit, his compassionate heart, and his considerate nature. He took an involved interest in the lives and concerns of family and friends alike and was always available to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. As one who valued the traditions and manners of yesteryear, Vito was a true gentleman who will always be remembered for his uniquely charming and courteous ways. Among his favorite pastimes, Vito especially enjoyed bowling. His passion for the game dates back to his youth. During his teen years, he organized and played on his high school bowling team and, outside of school, worked as a pinsetter. Since that time, he has not only enjoyed a noteworthy career as a kegler, always proving himself to be truly talented bowler, but he has also been a primary force in promoting league competition and tournaments throughout the local area. Al least one of the leagues he founded is still functioning today. He has been an active and valued member of various bowling organizations and committees, including the Rome Bowling Assn. in which he once held the office of President, and also the NYS Bowling Assn. where he was elected to serve as a Director. In 1980 he was elected to the Rome Bowling Hall of Fame, and in 2002 he was inducted into the New York State Bowling Hall of Fame. In addition to bowling, Vito also loved to play bocce, and he was involved in coordinating and organizing the activities of the Revere Athletic Assn. Ever proud of his Italian ancestry, he was a member of the Rome Italian-American Heritage Committee. He was a communicant of St. John the Baptist Church and belonged to the Holy Name Society. Mr. Galligano is survived by his son, Michael A. Galligano of Chicago IL and Las Vegas NV. His survivors also include a brother and sister-in-law, Michael A. Jr. and Gloria Galligano of Utica; his nieces and nephews, Cathy A. Galligano of Utica, Debbie Lanzi of Rome, David and Kelly Lanzi of FL, Michael J. Sr. and Amy Galligano of New Hartford, and Eva Meloa of Rome; a number of great-nieces and great-nephews, especially acknowledging Michael J. Galligano Jr., Mariel Mazza, Gary Mazza, and Angelo M. Donato; and his in-laws, Charles and Shirley Lanzi, Josephine Bolanowski, and Mr. & Mrs. Jerome Alaimo, all of Rome. In addition, Vito leaves many special friends including Peter Bosco, Sam DiBella, John Donnels of New Orleans who shared many memorable and moving experiences from their World War II military service, John Sweeney who was also his godson, Paul Sweeney, Dr. Dawn Sweeney of Rochester, Anita Eannace, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pinto of CA, Lesley Levy & family of San Diego, Dominick Aliazzi of New Orleans and Cleveland, Mr. & Mrs. Emilio Camara of CA, Mrs. Jan Charles of Detroit, and Mr. & Mrs. James K. Smaldon and family of Rome. Mr. Galligano was predeceased by a niece, Sandra Galligano; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Frank & Eva Comis; a nephew, Joseph Bolanowski; and his in-laws, Theodore Bolanowski and Anthony “Babe” Comis. Visitation will be held today (Thursday) from 5-8 at the Nicholas J. Bush Funeral Home. Mr. Galligano’s funeral will commence on Friday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. John the Baptist Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with military honors. Interment will take place in St. John’s Cemetery in Rome at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., Utica NY 13501, 315-724-6714.

Vito A. Galligano

May 27, 1921 - March 19, 2006