Mr. John A. Bello, Sr.

NEW YORK MILLS - Mr. John A. Bello, Sr., age 86, peacefully passed away on Monday, December 23, 2019 at MVHS Rehabilitation & Nursing Center. Born in Utica on March 18, 1933, John was the son of the late Joseph and Lena (Sorace) Bello. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1953. A proud veteran of the United States Army, John honorably served his country as a Medic stationed in Germany. In 1958 he married the former Mary Jane Lucarelli and to that relationship came the blessing of three children, a devoted friendship, and many years together. He began his working life at General Electric at the Bleecker Street location on the Assembly Line. Over the years, he kept occupied working at T.J. Liquors, and Canada Dry among others. He was later employed at N.J. Curri Oldsmobile in the Vehicle Reconditioning Department, the position from which he retired. A dependable, compassionate soul, John was a great guy who was loved by many. He enjoyed fun times and laughter with his family when they played cards, especially pitch and pinochle, games he played like a pro. He was a helpful man who offered his talents whenever they were needed. Birthdays and holidays were important times to celebrate and honor traditions. John’s leisure activities included fishing at Lake Moraine, Leland Pond, or any other creek or fishing hole, always sharing his catch of the day with others. He enjoyed camping with his family at Wellesley Island at the St. Lawrence. He was also an avid pool player, beginning at Chichy’s on Bleecker Street and in later years, at Hippo’s. His expertise in the sport allowed him to attend many pool tournaments. In his youth he was a pin setter at the renowned Palace Bowling Alley, and bowled in a league at the former Madison Bowling Alley. Not all would know, but John was a talented artist. Numerous works were infallible. During the course of his life, John was blessed with 5 Bassett Hounds who were always by his side. John is survived by his wife, Mary Jane; his children, John A. Bello Jr. and Naomi Gray, and Laurey Bello McKinney. He mourned the loss of their daughter Diane Marie Bello in 1973. He also leaves his sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary B. and Nicholas Curri, and Juliet “Judy” and Philip Rolchigo; brother, Joseph Bello; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and a lifetime of family and friends who made for a wonderful journey. He was predeceased by a special uncle, Tony Sorace; and his sister-in-law, Mamie Bello. The family extends their gratitude to the staff and aides of Barton North at MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and to helper Thoopaw “Thumbelina”. A special note of appreciation from the family is offered to Naomi Gray, who is not only family, but a fantastic nurse who handled John’s needs with such grace. The family would also like to recognize Frank Pape and Harold Thomas, two of John’s close friends and pool playing partners of many years. Harold was like a son to John and loved dearly. Special recognition also to Oliver “Skip” Crewe, John’s watch repairman of many years. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. John’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday evening at 6:00 at the funeral home. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. John A. Bello, Sr.

March 18, 1933 - December 23, 2019