Mr. Walter J. Marrotta Sr.

Mr. Walter J. Marrotta, Sr., age 86, passed away on Wednesday, April 30, 2014, at Mohawk Valley Health Systems at St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his loving daughter-in-law by his side. Born in Utica on April 22, 1928, Walter was the son of the late Thomas and Goruzza “Gregoria” (Cerchiaro-Gaetano-Marrotta). He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. Walter worked in a variety of occupations during his employment years. He held positions in auto sales, horse race wagering at OTB (Off Track Betting), and the Oneida County Job Placement Program. He helped out with his son and daughter in-laws at The Green Thumb Garden Center. He also enjoyed dabbling in politics. In keeping with his civic calling and nature, he volunteered at our area hospitals. Walter was blessed with the gift of gab and a giving heart; he showed his love the best way he could, and will be remembered as a “man’s man”. He was a proud grandfather who watched his grandson grow to be the man that he is today. He looked forward to Sunday dinners with his son’s family, and the holidays, of course, were no exception. His interests included drawing, solving crossword puzzles, participating in football pools, card games, and fishing with his nephews, the Nole boys. Walter is survived by his beloved daughter-in-law, Zaffa A. Marrotta of Whitesboro. Always close to his heart was the memory of his only son, Walter J. Marrotta, Jr., who passed away on June 17, 2011. Also left to carry on his legacy is his cherished grandson, Walter A. and his wife Jill Marrotta of NC; his great-grandson, Luca Marrotta; his brother, Joseph “Joe” Gaetano; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. As a social and affable man, Walter leaves behind his many friendships that he formed over the years. He was predeceased by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Albert and Marian Marrotta, Sylvester J. and Josephine Gaetano, and Frank and Kathryn Marrotta; and his sisters and brothers-in-law, Elvira and Emilio J. Santa-Croce, Antoinette “Nette” and Alphonse Nole, and Angeline and Dominick Saparito. A special thank you to Walter’s devoted care giver Shari Morinitti for her genuine and heart felt care. Visitation will be held on Sunday afternoon from 2-4 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The prayer of incense will be offered on Sunday at 3:30. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Regional Cancer Center at FSLH, or the Abraham House, in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Walter’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Louis Gonzaga Church where the Divine Liturgy of the Faithful Departed will be offered by Chorbishop John D. Faris. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Walter J. Marrotta Sr.

April 22, 1928 - April 30, 2014