Mary L. Vento Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

UTICA – Mary L. Vento, age 100, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2022, when she was reunited with her son. She passed with her daughter by her side in the comfort and dignity of her home. Born in Utica on November 28, 1921, to the late Alessandro “Alexander” and Concetta (Casatelli) Vento, Mary attended Wetmore Grammar School and was a member of the first graduating class of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1940. Mary was born with incredible organizational skills and advanced herself through courses at MVCC. Subsequently, Mary accepted a position working for the General Electric Co. at their French Road location, where she was granted top security clearance at her position as a Secretary in the Defense Department. After that, Mary went on to accept a position with the Utica City School District working in the main office at T.R. Proctor High School. Mary served in this role until her retirement. She took great pride in being an alumna of T.R. Proctor, and appreciated the opportunity to have worked there, and to have been part of the committee to have the high school preserve its name. A determined woman, Mary’s heart belonged to her children and her efforts were devoted to their well-being. She always prioritized their education, which was of the utmost importance to her. Mary worked hard and managed to provide for her children’s higher education; it made her so proud that they were able to begin their adult lives free of financial burden. Mary had made so many sacrifices in her life to achieve this, and her children were forever grateful. A socially and civically minded woman, Mary was politically active in the city beginning with her work at City Hall with the Assaro Administration. Furthermore, she was an active woman who went to the gym often and managed to remain independent and active all through her later years—up until this past year. Becoming a centenarian was such a great blessing! Mary had the unique capacity to appreciate each day of her life. Additionally, she had a great rapport with her physicians, who all marveled at her health. Her stamina was amazing! Mary had years of history and was as a communicant of St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church. Mary was part of the greatest generation; her long life led her to possess great wisdom, integrity, and grace. Mary is survived by her devoted and caring daughter and son-in-law, Grace C. and Eli Zogby. She cherished in her heart the memory of her son, Alexander, who passed on October 26, 1999. Mary made numerous meaningful friendships during her time in Acacia Village, which was a wonderful time in her life when she felt renewed; she was also particularly proud of her involvement, alongside her friends, in the chorus. Mary was predeceased by her dear cousin, Louise E. Centolella, who was also her daughter Grace’s godmother. The family would like to extend a gracious thank you to Dr. Thomas John; he was Mary’s longtime physician and trusted friend. Once she became a resident of Acacia Village, she immediately felt the love and care of her neighbors and the staff. Although Mary was in an independent living situation, she took advantage of many of the activities, and the quality of life these gave her were unmatched. A special note of gratitude goes out to Grace’s friend, Josie Latus, who was with her at the time of her mom’s passing; Brandy Verminski, a devoted aide and a blessed soul; and to all the staff, who were exceptional, especially Amy and Bonnie—they were kind and accommodating, watching over Mary with such special attention. Gratitude is also extended to Daughters for Hire, especially Sarah, Crystal, and Shauna, who provided exceptional care for Mary. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Mary’s Funeral Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 12:00 at the funeral immediately upon conclusion of visitation. She will be laid to rest next to her son, Alexander, in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Mary’s wishes were truly to help others in need, so please consider donations in her memory to the Hope House online at http://hopehouseutica.org/donate/; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home.

Mary L. Vento

November 28, 1921 - June 7, 2022