Carmela M. (Lupo) DiFondi

Mrs. Carmela M. (Lupo) DiFondi, age 90, of Utica, passed away on Thursday, February 11, 2016 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center. At the time of her passing, she was in the hearts of those she loved the most. Born in Utica on December 7, 1925, Carmela was the daughter of the late Sebastian and Domenica “Mamie” (Sardina) Lupo. She was raised and educated in local schools. On December 18, 1951 she married Eugene A. “Clark” DiFondi, Sr. Carmela cared for Gene with love and compassion during his illness until his passing on July 16, 1976. During her working years, Carmela was employed by Tri-State Industrial Laundries, Inc. and later at Progressive Cleaners. She subsequently worked at the Masonic Care Community of NY in the Dietary Department for many years, the position from which she retired. Selfless and unassuming, Carmela was generous of heart and spirit. God’s greatest gift to her was the blessing of her children who she considered “gems”. She loved each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was fond of family gatherings and the fun that bridged each generation. Carmela was contemporary in her thinking and actions. She had a good sense of humor and was known for her “off color” jokes. She was personable and recognized by her friends as a generous soul. Unbeknown to many, she expressed her deepest and most treasured thoughts through the art of poetry, ranging from serious reflections to light-hearted themes. Her creativity was also seen in her capacity for painting, drawing, and sewing, often helping others with alterations. Carmela loved her “little” garden and tended to her plants with patience and pride. She showed her love well, every day, in every way. Carmela is survived by her children and their spouses, Peter P. DiFondi of Buffalo, Jean and Bob O’Connor of Kayuta Lake, and Raymond and Jeana DiFondi of AZ; her grandchildren, Peter “PJ” and Morgan DiFondi and his mom, Doreen Sollecito; Bob Jr. and Sommer O’Connor, Michael O’Connor, and Lisa O’Connor; Rochelle and David Ziegler; Christopher and Robin DiFondi; her great-grandchildren, Eva Bella, and Dalton; Alexis, Fallon, and Skylie; Isabella, Jonah, Nathan, and Capri; her brother Sebastian “Benny” Lupo, who loved his sister very much; step daughter-in-law Valeri DiFondi; and the residents at the Mt. Carmel Apartments with whom she shared years of friendship. She was predeceased by her stepson, Sergeant First Class Eugene “Gene” A. DiFondi, Jr. The family is grateful to Dr. Vinod Kudagi, a compassionate physician and advocate; and the staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Intensive Care Unit, especially close friend and nurse Gary Evans and fellow nurse Ben. A note of gratitude to Melissa who extended her love and concern to Carmela and her family. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc, 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Carmela’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Carmela M. (Lupo) DiFondi

December 7, 1925 - February 11, 2016