Mr. Carlo Spataro

E. UTICA – On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, Mr. Carlo Spataro, age 75, went home to the Lord in the comfort and dignity of his own home. At the time of his passing, he was well-prepared, had no regrets, and was surrounded by the love and care of close family and friends. Born in Ardore, Provincia di Calabria, Italy, on November 4, 1950, Carlo was the son of the late Bruno and Yolanda (Rianó) Spataro. He spent his early childhood in Italy until his father and brother, Joseph “Pepe,” paved the way for the family to immigrate to the United States when Carlo was eight years old. They established their roots in the Utica area, where Carlo attended Conkling Elementary School and later graduated from T. R. Proctor High School in 1968. At one time, he had been married to the former Phyllis Audino, and from that relationship came the blessings of two cherished children. When Carlo entered the workforce, he was first associated with his brother Pepe in the operation of Joseph Spataro Mason Contractor before taking a position as a security guard at MVCC. He then became a correctional officer, firstly serving downstate and later transferred to Midstate Correctional Facility. He was also trained as a member of the Correctional Emergency Response Team. After 25 years of service, he retired in 2011. In the eyes of many, he was a selfless man with a quiet nature. He was a solid, reliable presence in many people’s lives, especially his children. He allowed his kids to make their own decisions and follow their passions. He was a great comfort and support to them, and they always felt his love. A phenomenal cook, Carlo tended to a vast vegetable garden from which he gathered many of the fresh ingredients used in his exemplary meals. He always remembered the favorites of his family and friends and delighted in serving them his specialties. Recently, he was strong enough to teach the secret to preparing his famous tripe dish to his son-in-law, Andrew, and exhorted him, “Don’t tell everyone you know how to prepare this—otherwise you’ll have none for yourself!” Carlo beautifully carried on the family traditions of preparing the finest foods and using only the best ingredients. Family and friends knew well the seasons of sausage making, roasting peppers, stuffing cherry peppers, and canning tomatoes. For many years, winemaking was one of his favorite pastimes as well. Special family gatherings always revolved around food, laughter, and good company. A lover of nature, Carlo often retreated to his special fishing spot in the West Canada Creek area, where, many years ago, he patiently taught his son Anthony how to fish. He treasured these moments, sharing not just his skills but his love for the quiet beauty of the outdoors. Deer hunting was another passion he passed on, and even when Anthony was very young, he delighted in watching his father’s enthusiasm and gentle guidance. Rabbit hunting became one of their most cherished traditions; it was on one of these trips that Anthony was finally old enough to carry his own gun—one of Carlo’s favorites, which he entrusted with pride and joy. Together, they created countless memories, laughed under open skies, and took loving care in preparing each catch to perfection, savoring not just the food but the bond they shared. A member of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, Carlo experienced renewal of his soul when he attended Mass, especially with his daughter MarieAngela, and the love of the Lord and His teachings were imparted to his heart. Carlo is survived by his precious children, MarieAngela and her husband Andrew Kopek, and Anthony J. Spataro; and his siblings and their spouses, Giovanna and Vincenzo Cutrona, Mario and Phyllis Spataro, Dominick and Teresa Spataro, and Maria and Alfredo Valentini. He fondly remembered his brother, Giuseppe “Joe” “Pepe” Spataro, who preceded him on July 11, 2019. His loss is also felt by his nieces and nephews, Yolanda Roefaro, Bruno Spataro and Rosemary LaBella-Spataro, Michael and Michele Spataro, Victor and Francine LaBella-Spataro, Olga and Richard Siegenthaler; Angelina Cutrona Hess and her husband Alan; Nicholas and Kristina Spataro, Christina Spataro and Wayne Bertino; and Arianna and Nick Huffield; great-nieces and great-nephews, Geno and Shannon Roefaro, Francesca Roefaro, and Rocco Roefaro; Lia and Tim Francisco, Cara and T.J. Curley; Joseph, Anthony, and Gianna Spataro; Rocco, and Vincent Spataro; Bianca and Jared Worwood, and Remo Siegenthaler; Romeo, and Aurora Spataro; and Lucian Huffield; and great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, Eli, Ian, and Layla Francisco; Santino Tubia, and Isabella Curley. He will additionally be missed by many dear friends valued as family for their love and loyalty, Mike and Rita Delia, Steve and Becky LoPiccolo - Steve and Carlo lunched daily at Rosa’s and even had their own table – Vinny and Gina Pristera, Dan and Sue Shanley, Jamie and Danielle Tedesco, Frank and Debbie Chandler, Micky and Cindy Maunz, Judy Galimo (and the late Mike who was his best friend), Michael and Chelsea Galimo and their son Michael, Dominick and Jordyn Galimo and their son Dominick, and Julian and Nick Testa and their son Nick. The Spataro family would like to thank Dr. Fred Talarico, who was more than a physician to Carlo and was honored as an outstanding friend. Thanks are also extended to Dr. Alicia DeTraglia and her nurse, Becky, in whom Carlo placed his trust and for whom he developed genuine affection. The family is additionally grateful to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. for their timely response and assistance, which made Carlo’s transition to eternity peaceful. They also extend their gratitude to Rev. Joseph Salerno, who conferred the Anointing of the Sick with great reverence. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Carlo’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Carlo’s name may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. online at www.hospicecareinc.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service.

Mr. Carlo Spataro

November 4, 1950 - November 18, 2025