Joseph J. Canarelli, Jr.

Mr. Joseph J. Canarelli, Jr., age 65, of Whitesboro, passed away on Friday, April 03, 2009 in the privacy of his home after a courageous battle with brain cancer with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on December 8, 1943, Joseph was the son of the late Joseph J. Sr. and Sarah (Brescia) Canarelli. He was raised and educated in N.Y. Mills. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, he served his country from 1962-1966. On September 20, 1969 he married his high school sweetheart, the former Connie L. Shaw with whom he shared 37 years prior to her passing on March 29, 2007. Joseph shared in an admirable relationship with Connie, who was the love of his life. Joseph truly loved his work as a letter carrier with the U.S. Postal Service and he found great fulfillment in the service he provided. He is thankful to his many loyal clients that he served on his routes every day until his retirement. A man of true character and integrity, he was an active person who “never let moss grow under his feet”. His priorities were tending to his home and camp, and when able, to friends and neighbors in need. As a loving father, Joseph considered his son to be his best friend. During his spare time he pursued his talents as a craftsman and woodworker. Some of his fondest memories were rooted at the family camp on Kayuta Lake where he spent precious moments with his family. He was a communicant of Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Joseph is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Shawn and Michelle Canarelli of Sauquoit; and his grandchildren, Josh, and “princess” Isabella. Survivors also include his sister and brother-in-law, Marialana and Mark D. Tubert of New Hartford; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert A. and Winifred Canarelli of Sauquoit, Pat and Rachel Canarelli of Cassville, Frank R. and Eva “Jane” Canarelli of Utica, and David and Diane Canarelli of PA; a special aunt, Rachel Chieco; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; his mother-in-law, Stella Shaw, whom he lovingly cared for as his own mother up until his illness; a loving sister-in-law, Lisa Shaw; and a dear aunt, Jane Kaczor. Joseph will be greatly missed by his many friends, especially Vinny LaPaglia, and a special neighbor and dear friend for over thirty years, Roe Kirkland. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law, John Terry Shaw. The family is grateful to Joe's primary physician, Dr. Gooldy, and his staff for their friendship and loving care; Dr. Desai, nurse practitioner Windy Mitchell, and his nurses and staff; and Dr. Crawford and the staff of Faxton Hopsital, including Linda Talerico for their care and transportation. A special thank you to Dr. Marissa Kalil, and to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. for their love and compassion. Shawn and Michelle want to extend their sincere appreciation to Caregivers and their excellent staff, especially acknowledging Sue, Brenda, Dolores, Eileen, Dolores, Mary, and John whose loving concern was very much appreciated- they were like "angels" to the family. Visitation will be held on Monday from 4-7 p.m. 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, memorial contributions in Joe's honor may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. or to the Edward Talerico Scholarship Fund (National Association of Letter Carriers); envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Joe's funeral service will commence on Tuesday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at Our Lady of the Rosary Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Military Honors. Joseph will be put to rest beside his beloved wife, Connie, at Calvary Mausoleum.

Joseph J. Canarelli, Jr.

December 8, 1943 - April 3, 2009