Mr. Guido P. "Skeets" Tolfa

Mr. Guido P. “Skeets” Tolfa, age 94, passed away on Tuesday, May 3, 2016 at the Presbyterian Home for Central NY with his loving family by his side. Born in St. Johnsville, NY on April 15, 1922, Guido was the son of the late Joseph and Loretta (Coggi) Tolfa. He was raised and educated in St. Johnsville, a graduate of St. Johnsville High School. A proud veteran of World War II, Skeets honorably served his country in the United States Navy from 1942-1946 as a bombardier off the coast of South America. He was grateful to have survived the military endeavors of The War. On September 20, 1947 he married the former Margaret Rich with whom he shared his love and respect for 48 years. Margaret passed away on December 7, 1995. He was a faithful husband who tended to the needs of his family, a hallmark of his era - the Greatest Generation. First and foremost, Skeets was a gifted salesman. He was hardworking during his association with a number of area companies. As an employee, he purchased and became the proprietor of the Utica Spray and Chemical Company presently located at 2 Campion Road. He was a true people person and he had a good rapport with his patrons. He continued to work there until the age of 90. The business has been perpetuated by his son Robert, to this day. Skeets was a progressive patriarch, involved with the activities of his children, yet traditional in raising his family. His devotion to his loved ones was evident from his actions. Tending to his home was important to him. Family get-togethers were special when his siblings visited, since he considered them as his friends. He was a jokester and family photographer, and in his golden years, he reclaimed his youthful mindset and did things his way. Throughout his life, he was an avid and accomplished golfer and was well-known in that area as a ‘Golf Master’. A member of the Yahnundasis until the age of 92, he won the club championship and super senior club championship. Previously, he was a member of Valley View and Higby Hills, where he also won several club championships. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, VFW Post #229, and a parishioner of St. John the Evangelist Church. Guido is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Dr. Debra and George Veit of Arizona, and Virginia Tolfa and Robert Harry of Oregon; his sons and daughters-in-law, Robert and Patricia Tolfa of New Hartford, and Larry and Lisa Tolfa of Albany; and his grandchildren, who were his pride and joy, Taylor Harry, Satchel and wife Nisha Harry, Tyrel Harry; Marita and husband Donald Laribee; Michael Tolfa, and Christian Tolfa. He will also be remembered by his sister, Molly Battisti of St. Johnsville; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, sister-in-law, Peggy Rich; and his golfing partner and lawyer, Carl Cochi, as well as his other longtime golfing buddies; and friend and spiritual mentor, Fr. Fred Mannara. He was predeceased by his sisters and brother-in-law, Clara and Paul Frezza, and Jessie Tolfa; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Lorenzo and Olga Tolfa, and Peter and Ann Tolfa; and brother-in-law Romeo Battisti. The family extends their appreciation to the nurses and staff of the Birch Wing at the Presbyterian Home for their compassionate care. Visitation will be held on Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Guido's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/ Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be offered by Father Fred Mannara. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Guido P. "Skeets" Tolfa

April 15, 1922 - May 3, 2016