Abel G. DeFreitas

Mr. Abel G. DeFreitas, age 71, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and support of his family by his side. Born in Portugal, Madeira Island on October 20, 1940, Abel was the son of the late George and Conceicao (DeFreitas) DeFreitas. At the age of 19, he immigrated to the United States and settled in Utica. Abel applied his skilled welding techniques at both Chicago Pneumatic and Special Metals, retiring in 2002. A hard worker not only at the workplace, he was also a man who was proud of the upkeep of his own home. A great Dad, he watched over his children with much love and was a devoted grandfather, affectionately known to them as Mapa, a term that melted his heart. He was a New York Yankees fan, and a passionate bowler, a sport that he shared with his son; he will always be remembered by his extended family “Abel’s Army” at Pin-O-Rama. He looked forward to return visits to his homeland of Portugal, to go to the beach, visit with family and friends, and honor his customs and heritage. Abel is survived by his daughter, Patricia DeFreitas; his son, Abel Steven DeFreitas; and their mother Maria DeFreitas; his beloved grandchildren, Tionna; Marcella, and Makaiyah, and their mother Janelle; his sisters, Veronica, and Anna; his brothers and their spouses, George Jr., Alfredo, and Vasco; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins residing in Portugal; his faithful neighbors Victorio and Noelia; and his canine companion, tea cup Yorkie, “Patron”. The family sends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Sultana Razia for her compassionate and caring nature, the Oncology staff at Slocum Dickson Medical Group, the personnel at the Regional Cancer Center; 1East and the ICU at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center. They all helped to make Abel’s final journey of life more meaningful. Visitation will be Friday from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Abel’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Sister Elizabeth Giarrusso, CSJ officiating the ceremony.

Abel G. DeFreitas

October 20, 1940 - March 6, 2012