William "Bill" G. Meola

Mr. William "Bill" G. Meola, age 81, a resident of the Charles T. Sitrin Health Care Center, passed away on Wednesday, February 8, 2006, at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center with his family by his side. Born in Utica on June 20, 1924, Bill was the son of the late Frank and Philomena (Spiridiglozzi) Meola. He was raised here and educated in local schools. A proud veteran of World War II, he served with honor and distinction in the U.S. Marine Corps. For his courageous actions and the injuries he sustained during the Battle of Iwo Jima, he was awarded the Purple Heart. On November 5, 1945 he was joined in marriage with the former Rosemary P. Balsamo with whom he has shared a loving union of 60 years. Bill and Rosemary devoted their lives to their relationship and to the joys of family life. A longtime employee of Griffiss Air Force Base, Mr. Meola worked there as a carpenter, the position from which he retired. As a supportive and dedicated father and grandfather, Bill focused his intentions, concerns, and efforts upon his family. He also participated in many community groups and activities. He was a valued member of the DAV Commandery, Stars and Stripes Chapter #82 and served devotedly as Commander of the group in 1962-63. He was also a member of the Purple Heart. In his younger days, Bill was a talented and dedicated boxer. Later he enjoyed working with young people through coaching Little League and Pony League under the auspices of the Jack Price Organization. At one time he was involved in local government as a committeeman of the Republican Party. He was a communicant of St. Agnes Church and had volunteered in their physical education program. Mr. Meola is survived by his wife, Rosemary; two daughters, Donna Brutto of Utica, and Danette Meola and Mike Maxam of Whitesboro; and three sons and daughters-in-law, William "Bill" and Angela Meola of Utica, Joseph and Marcia Meola of IA, and Dan Meola of Syracuse. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Stephanie Brutto of FL, Kayla Rose Maxam of Whitesboro, Bill and Jodi Maxam of Rome, Kara and Craig Stitsinger of OH, Joseph Meola, USM, currently serving in Iraq, Daniel Jr., Michael, and Matthew Meola of Syracuse; several step grandchildren; and his adored great-granddaughter, Gianna Meola. Bill's survivors also include his brother and sister-in-law, Anthony and Josephine Meola; a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; and his in-laws, Joan and John Velletto, and Sally and Raymond Arcuri, all of Frankfort. He was predeceased by his brothers and sisters, Michael Meola, Violet Tucci, Margaret Vilardi, Carmella Peters, and Helen Gigliotti; and his in-laws, Joseph and Mary Balsamo. The family offers its thanks to the entire staff of the Charles T. Sitrin Health Care Center, especially the personnel of the 2nd floor, for the kindness and compassion they showed to Bill and to his family who will remain ever grateful for the wonderful care he received. Visitation will be held on Friday from 4-8 at the Nunn & McGrath Funeral Home, Inc., 470 French Rd. Arrangements are under the direction of the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. (315) 724-6714. Please omit floral offerings. Mr. Meola's funeral will commence on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. from the funeral home and at 12:00 noon at St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Military Honors. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. "Mom-thank you for all the years you cared for Dad."

William "Bill" G. Meola

June 20, 1924 - February 8, 2006