Antoinette Costello

Mrs. Antoinette R. “Ann” (Zinicola) Costello, age 83, formerly of South St., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 17, 2006 at the Masonic Care Community of NY where she currently resided. Born in Utica on November 17, 1922, Ann was the daughter of the late Joseph A. and Rosalie (Borruso) Zinicola. She was raised here and attended local schools. On September 15, 1945 she married Anthony B. Costello with whom she shared a union of 54 years prior to his passing on October 30, 1999. Ann was an exceptional person, one who was both an exemplary family woman and a conscientious homemaker. As a devoted and loyal wife and mother, she knew the blessings of a wonderful family life and shared those joys with her loved ones. A caretaker by nature, she attended the needs of her family members with the attention, warmth, and comfort of her loving dedication. She considered her four daughters to be the most rewarding and significant aspect of her life. She derived great pleasure and pride from them and from her grandchildren, and she lovingly returned their affection by making her home a secure, happy, and welcoming place, often through the use of her cooking and homemaking skills. Because she especially loved all of the various holiday traditions and dishes, she entered eagerly and wholeheartedly into the preparations every year. Not only did she like cooking and baking, but she also greatly enjoyed watching the shows on the cooking network. As one who possessed a deep and steadfast faith, Ann was a prayerful woman. Mrs. Costello is survived by 4 daughters and a son-in-law, Linda Brown of Hubbardsville NY, Sharon Costello of Schuyler NY, Toni Marie Reese of Utica, and Sally and Wayne Whitaker of Marcy. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Tina Marie Brown and Terry Brown; Brian Reese, Robert “Bobby” Reese, and their father, Don Reese; and Alyssa Whitaker. In addition, her survivors include a sister, Pauline “Pat” Saponari of New York Mills; a brother, Ronald T. Zinicola of GA; a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; and her in-laws, Mary Zinicola, Rose Mozzetti, both of Utica, Josephine and Enrico Cecilia of Whitesboro, and Angelo and Anna Castelli of Utica. Ann truly appreciated her neighbors and remembers the kindness of her friends at the Masonic Care Community. The family especially remembers the kindness of Betty Carriero, and Don and Shirely Reese with a special remembrance She was preceded in death by an infant son, Michael Anthony Costello, whom she cherished within her heart and memory ever after. She was also predeceased by her stepmother, Mary D. (Graziano) Zinacola; 2 brothers, Vincent Zinicola, and Patrick N. Zinicola; her sister and brother-in-law, Frances and Joseph Voce; her half-brother, Joseph P. Zinicola; and her brother-in-law, John Saponari. The family wishes to thank the staff of the Masonic Care Community, especially the personnel of 3 South, the Queens Household: Ann’s children will always remember and hold dear all those who provided such outstanding, loving, and dedicated care to their mother as well as the comfort and reassurance to her family that she was safe and well cared-for in their hands. A Special thank you to Carmen and Edith Guarnieri for their constant and supportive concern, for their many visits, for their loyal friendship, and for “watering Ann’s basil plants.” Visitation will be held on Saturday afternoon from 1:30-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Mrs. Costello’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at the funeral home at 4:00 Saturday afternoon immediately upon the conclusion of calling hours. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Antoinette Costello

November 17, 1922 - May 17, 2006