Guy D. Gazzilli, Sr.

Mr. Guy D. Gazzilli, Sr., age 55, of Utica, passed away on Friday, June 1, 2007, in the comfort of his home with his loving family and friends by his side. Born in Utica on April 19, 1952, Guy was the son of the late Daniel and Josephine (Fanelli) Gazzilli. Raised and educated in Utica, he was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School. At one time he was married to the former Jacalyn Pullman. The couple knew the blessing of wonderful children, many good times, and a friendship that endured until the last moments of his life. Guy’s working career began alongside his father, Daniel in the operation of Albertson Floor Covering as a floor mechanic. Through the local carpenters union 120, he traveled the East coast installing flooring. In 1997 he re-established Albertson Floor Covering with his son, Daniel. All through his career, he was noted for his creative and meticulous installations. A man of charm and charisma, his quick wit could draw a crowd and inspire love and laughter, sometimes at others’ expense. At one point he devoted his spare time to coaching an area youth baseball league, was an avid Yankee and NY Giants Fan, and a collector of sports memorabilia. He enjoyed the excitement of the game of chance at Atlantic City and Turning Stone Casino. At home, he was a seasoned cook, especially at the barbecue, and brought the family together for memorable meals and great times. For relaxation, he solved crossword puzzles, played the board game Trivial Pursuit and watched Jeopardy, always challenging his mind. He also had an extensive and vast movie collection. He was a parishioner of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Guy is survived by his sons and their families, “Big” Daniel G. Gazzilli, Sr. and fiancée Sherri Vinci of Utica, Guy D. Jr. and Sue (Abel) Gazzilli, of Utica, Nicholas S. Gazzilli, who lived with his dad and was his “sidekick”, and Thomas Falzarine; his former wife and mother of his children, Jackie Gazzilli; his grandchildren, "Lil Lil" Dan Gazzilli, Jr., Michael, and Ryan. Also surviving is his sister, Josephine A. Hebert of Utica; always close to his heart was the memory of his sister, Donna M. Gazzilli-Coy who passed away on July 11, 2006; and he is also survived by his brother-in-law, Jeffrey L. Coy, Sr. His family includes his nieces and nephews, with whom he shared a fatherly relationship: Gina and Steve Hajdasz, Nicole and Kevin Laffey, Daniel “Lil Dan” Hebert and fiancée Kassidy Augustine, Ralphie J. Cavo, Joseph Cavo, and Allan Goodhines and Megan Major; his great-nieces and great-nephews, including Daniella, Jeffrey, Gianna, Kaleb, Isabella, “Lilest” Dan, and Jaydan; his cousins; his aunts and uncles, and his in-laws, Ed and Janice Jennings, MaryLou and Paul DePietro, Carmen Williams, Jamie Pullman, and their children. Guy’s friends Rock and Lynn LaPaglia, Joseph and Vanessa Sowich, Sheila and Vinny Biamonte, were a true blessing to him. The love of his devoted friends and the daily support to his family has been a godsend. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Daniel Hebert. The family extends appreciation to Dr. Jerry B. Sloan, Dr. Sultana Razia, and their staffs, the oncology unit at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, the blessing of friends with unending committment: Mike Peters, Jim Ransier, Mike Hobaica, Jeff Cook, Diane M., Diane D., Sal Torchia, Tony Torchia, Herm and Norm, Joan and Bill Abel; Father Joe Salerno for his spiritual support, and the benefactors and supporters of the fundraiser in March of 2007 which was greatly appreciated. As some may say, “A person is measured by the friends they leave behind. Then Guy walked as a giant on this earth ~ until we meet again”. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 4:00 – 8:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Mr. Gazzilli’s honor to the family to establish an education fund for his son Nicholas; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Guy’s funeral service will commence on Wednesday at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Guy D. Gazzilli, Sr.

April 19, 1952 - June 1, 2007