Helene F. Cragnolin(Lil)

Mrs. Helene F. Cragnolin (Lil), of New Hartford, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 9, 2012. Her passing occurred at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with her loving family by her side. Born and raised in Utica, Lil was the daughter of the late Salvatore and Vincenza (Caleo) Farina. She graduated from T.R. Proctor High School, and later studied modeling and fashion at Trap Hagen, and Barbizon. On August 31, 1950 in Historic Old St. John's Church she married Charles V. Cragnolin. They shared a union of 61 years of marriage. Having acquired a great talent for sewing from her paternal grandmother, Lil successfully ran a local drapery business, and was the main supplier to many area decorators. She later managed the operation of The Rutger Restaurant, a family venture which she co-owned with her husband and son, specializing in Northern Italian and Sicilian cuisine. She was a lady of elegance, class and sophistication. Lil, expressed her zest for life, love of family, and eagerness to connect with great enthusiasm. She was a gracious host, an explicit storyteller, and a woman who was very proud of her ancestry. She maintained her beauty and character throughout her life, and her personality was filled with grace and style. “Diamond Lil”, as she was affectionately known, was one of the greatest dancers, especially when she tripped the light fantastic to the song “New York, New York”. A ‘one-of-a-kind’, Lil will be remembered for her sharp wit and loved to entertain. She was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Lil is survived by her husband, Charles V.; and her son and daughter-in-law, Charles D. and Rebecca Cragnolin of Sauquoit. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, sister-in-law, Alvira “Jeri” Cragnolin; and her dear friend, Martha Bologna, who was a like a sister. She was predeceased by her brother, Matthew Farina; her in-laws, Alsace and Cecelia Cragnolin, Regina and Dr. Joseph Novek, Walter and Peggy Cragnolin, and LeRoy Cragnolin; and lifelong childhood friend, Jane Derminio and her husband Dick. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-8:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Lil’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday 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 St. Agnes Cemetery.