Anne Marie (Puglione) Zasa

Mrs. Anne M. (Puglione) Zasa, age 86, currently of Whitesboro and formerly of Utica, passed away on Wednesday, November 14, 2007 in the comfort of her daughter’s home with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on January 19, 1921, Anne was the daughter of the late Cesare and Pasqua (Laneve) Puglione. Raised and educated locally, she was always proud of being a member of the 2nd graduating class of T. R. Proctor High School. On September 1, 1947 she was united in marriage to Joseph Zasa who passed away on November 21, 2002. The couple shared a truly caring and devoted relationship of 55 years. For many years Anne had been associated with her father and her brother Angelo in the operation of the East Utica Poultry Market. A cheerful woman with great strength of character, she was also blessed with an accepting nature and a gracious aura. She was admired by loved ones and friends for her keen thought processes. Anne is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Irene and William Willett, Jr. of Whitesboro, and Delores and James Caruso of Utica; her grandchildren, Michael and Kim (Hill) Ridley of Latham, NY, Beth Anne Ridley of Whitesboro, Stephanie K. Caruso of Albany, and Joseph P. Caruso of Utica; and her great-grandchildren, Tristan Thomas Perry, Michaela Tighe Ridley, and Alexander Joseph Ridley. Also surviving are her nieces and nephews who adored Anne for her wisdom and guidance, especially acknowledging Patricia and Nicholas Caruso, Elaine and Anthony Sciarrino, Anna Marie Gentile, and Patricia and George Jweid; her great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Hannah Puglione of Utica, and Bernice Zasa of AZ. Anne had a loving and long time relationship with Jean Marie (Ventura) and Red Elliott, Marie (Ventura) and John Scialdone, and Louis and Jeanette Ventura. She was also blessed with many wonderful friends and neighbors, including her best friends, Kay DeLorenzo of Rome, Mary Decker, Natalie and Phil Caruso, and MaryLou Quadraro. She was predeceased by her brother, Angelo Puglione; her in-laws, Saverio C. Zasa and his wives Tina and Rosemarie, Louise and Jerry Hosel, and Anthony Zasa; and her great-nephew, Jason Reynolds. She was also preceded in death by her dear friend Kathleen Tuttle, as well as Kathleen’s husband Rollin. Anne thought of her daily and was so grateful for the sisterly relationship she shared with Kathleen. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Samir Desai, Judy of Central NY Cardiology, Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., especially Navaz, Nadine, and Irene for their loving and respectful care of Anne. Thanks also to Jerry and Marion Fontaine, Larry and Chris Calenzo, and Rae Saraceno who were fabulous and generous neighbors. Special gratitude is extended to MaryAnn Caruso Bottini and her husband Sam, and Florence and Frank Gohringer for the kindness and love they shared with Anne; also Father Joe Salerno for his spiritual support and prayers. In keeping with Anne’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. By family request, please omit floral offerings. The family will receive visitors on Saturday morning from 11:30-12:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish followed by her Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life at 12:00 noon. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Anne’s honor to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., or St. Jude Children’s Hospital; envelopes will be available at the service. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. “A special thank you to my family, extended family, friends, and neighbors for their love and care, especially more since my husband’s death. May God Bless all of you and “Good Bye” until we meet again. Anne.”

Anne Marie (Puglione) Zasa

January 19, 1921 - November 14, 2007