Mrs. Domenica Rose "Mimi" (Catalano) Montana

UTICA – Mrs. Domenica Rose “Mimi” (Catalano) Montana passed away on Sunday, December 4, 2022, with her loving family by her side, at the remarkable age of 102. Born in Utica on November 30, 1920 to the late Antonio and Catherine (Mallace) Catalano, she spent her long, fulfilling life in the area. In 1938 she was part of the first graduating class of T. R. Proctor High School. On October 16, 1943, she married the love of her life, Michael J. Montana. The two of them were completely devoted to one another. They dedicated their whole lives to each other and to creating a joy-filled family life. Michael passed away on January 23, 1996. Though at one time she was briefly employed at the General Electric Co., her primary and most fulfilling work was that of a homemaker. She never once failed to focus on her family and her home, placing the needs of her husband and her children above those of herself. She took pride in all she did, especially in her delicious home-cooked meals. Her skill in the kitchen was one of the best ways she showed her love. She lived by a motto of the more family around, the better. Her greatest joys came from her children and grandchildren. The memories she created with them are filled with laughter and joy. Domenica was incredibly selfless, always pleasant to be around, and with her amicable personality, she never stressed out. She will be most remembered for her compassion. Domenica loved playing the piano from a very young age. She possessed a lovely talent and could play many tunes strictly from memory. She had a great enthusiasm in all she did, and a fun zest for life. Born and raised a Catholic, her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her being. Domenica leaves behind her five children and their spouses, Michael J. Montana, Jr., Phillip A. and Marie L. Montana, Barbara J. and Tom Dennison, Janice M. and Sallard “Crow” Mullins, and Mark A. and Tedi Rose Montana. Through her life, she also held close the memory of her son, David Keith Montana, who passed away on June 24, 1965. She was additionally preceded by her daughter-in-law, Luba Montana, who passed away in 2004. Domenica’s loss is also felt by her grandchildren, Michaele and Nick Downey, David N. Montana, Kristina and Eric Shaw, Lisa J. and Matthew Tobin, Karen and Jon Bricknell, David L. and Teresa Mullins, Shaun M. Mullins, Mark Anthony and Amanda Montana, Michael Patrick and Coral Montana, and Giovannni Bear Montana. Her legacy will live on in her 21 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren, her godchild Helen Darjany and her husband Dan Darjany, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and their families. Domenica was predeceased by her in-laws, Anthony “Andy” and Jennie Montana, Laura and George Cattat, Sam and Frances Montana, Frances and Joseph Russo, Sr., Felix and Rose Montana, Joseph and Patricia Montana, and Agnes Russo. She was also preceded by her nephews, Philip J. Montana, Matthew Montana, and Phillip S. Montana, and her special friends, Muriel and Joseph Rudy. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the third and fourth floor staff at MVHS at St. Elizabeth Medical Center for their outstanding level of care and concern for Domenica. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Domenica’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Friday, December 9, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Mary Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St. There will be an opportunity to great the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, donations in Domenica’s honor may be made to the Abraham House online at https://www.theabrahamhouse.org/donate, or to St. Volodymyr Ukrainian Catholic Church by mail to 4 Cottage Place Utica, NY 13502; envelopes will also be available at the service. Domenica will be laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery between her beloved husband and son.

Mrs. Domenica Rose "Mimi" (Catalano) Montana

November 30, 1920 - December 4, 2022