Charles H. "The Music Man" Stevens

Mr. Charles H. “Charlie” Stevens, age 98, of New York Mills, affectionately known by many as “The Music Man”, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 8, 2011 with the love and support of his family by his side. Born in Auburn, NY on January 11, 1913, Charles was the son of the late John and Martha (Giryafey) Stevens. He was raised locally and attended school in New York Mills. A veteran of World War II, he served with the U.S. Army in the Pacific Theater of Operations where he was a rank Tech 5 mechanic in the 24th Infantry. On February 16, 1952 he married the former Theresa M. Amelio with whom he shared 44 years prior to her passing on April 12, 1996; a loving and devoted union that was made obvious in their dependence and admiration they held for one another. Charlie began his working career in the grocery business with his employment for Grand Union and Chicago Market. He next accepted an assignment as a bus driver for the Utica Transit Authority. He concluded his professional life with a 20-year tenure as a mechanic at Griffiss Air Force Base, the position from which he retired. Charlie was a good-hearted and considerate man with a deep and compassionate concern for others. The combination of his generous nature, his energetic spirit, his sympathetic attitudes, his empathetic understanding, and his thoughtful ways were the inspiration, motivation, and foundation for his countless acts of kindness, all of which were truly sincere and totally selfless. He brought joy and happiness to others, especially by sharing his music with the residents of various local nursing homes and health care facilities. Throughout area senior institutions such as the St. Luke’s Nursing Home, St. Luke’s Day Care, the Presbyterian Home for CNY, and the Masonic Care Community of NY, he was known and loved as the “Music Man”. In addition to the numerous service and health care groups to which he volunteered, Charlie was also active in numerous social, civic and veterans’ organizations; the New Hartford Senior Center, the Shriners, the Scottish Rite Masonic Lodge #150 F & AM, a life member of Post #229 of the American Legion, Chapter #82 of the Stars and Stripes, and the NY Mills Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was a communicant of St. Louis Gonzaga Church. Charlie is survived by his daughters, Rosanne M. Bravo of New Hartford, Theresa Petronella, and Verlie Stevens, of a previous marriage. In addition, he was blessed with the affection and respect of Sharon Campola whom he loved as a daughter. His survivors also include 6 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He mourned the loss of his grandson, John H. Stevens, who passed away on May 22, 2009. He also leaves a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins. Charlie was blessed with many wonderful friendships with special mention of Ben Enea, Sandy DeSarro, Sue Silvonik, and Russ Schmitt – each of these people made a difference in the quality of his life. He was predeceased by 2 brothers, Ferris Stevens, and Saad Stevens. A sincere thank you is extended to Dr. Mark Warfel and Sandra Gaetano, N.P., the kindess of these professionals was so much appreciated; the Hawthorn staff of Sitrin Healthcare Center provided outstanding and compassionate care. Gratitude is offered to Chorbishop John D. Faris for his friendship and pastoral guidance. It would be remiss not to extend heartfelt gratitude to Sharon’s family, who so graciously extended their love and hearts to Charlie throughout the years. Charlie also was blessed with longtime caregivers who became endeared friends – Monica Story, R.N. at the VA in Rome, Geri Durante, aide; they uplifted his spirits with their companionship. Charlie pre-arranged his final wishes which included no public visitation. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his Funeral Liturgy which will be offered by Chorbishop John D. Faris on Tuesday morning at 11:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave., with military honors conferred. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Those wishing to remember Charlie may make donations to the Stevens-Swan Humane Society; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of family.

Charles H. "The Music Man" Stevens

January 11, 1913 - December 8, 2011