Joseph L. DiPerna, Sr.

Mr. Joseph L. DiPerna, Sr., age 90, of Utica, passed away with his loving family by his side, on Thursday, June 14, 2007 at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center. Born in Utica on October 9, 1916, Joseph was the son of the late Carmine and Assunta (Ricci) DiPerna. He was raised and educated in Utica and attended Utica Free Academy. A veteran of World War II, he served his country in the U.S. Army from 1941–1945 in the North African and European Theaters as a member of Company B of the 809th Battalion. He was awarded the American Defense Service Medal, and the Eastern Service Medal with Bronze Star and Arrowhead, and numerous other commendations. On November 13, 1948 he married the former Jennie A. DeRusso. The couple shared a commitment and devotion to each other and to family life for 58 years. Joseph began his working life as a salesman for the Genesee Office Equipment Co. He subsequently worked as a driver for Dairylea Co., the position from which he retired in 1978 as a member of the Teamster’s Local. In his home life he was an excellent father figure who taught his children by example of his strong work ethic and values. He was also a dedicated grandfather, whether he was chauffeuring, providing a perfect snack, or showing his love and guidance to his grandson Joe. During his leisure time he took pleasure in reading and gardening, and he enjoyed reunions with fellow veteran buddies until recent years. He felt honored that he served his country, and was proud of being a good family man. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Church. Joseph is survived by his wife Jennie; his daughter, Janet M. Adamczyk of Utica; his son, Joseph L. DiPerna, Jr. of Sarasota, FL; and his adored grandson, Joseph M. Adamczyk. Also surviving are his sister and brother-in-law, Susan and Vincent Ciaccia; his brothers and sister-in-law, Frank J. DiPerna, and Enrico and Mary DiPerna, all of Utica; his nieces, especially acknowledging Marilyn DiPerna who was also his godchild, his nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-law, Margaret (Cattat) DeRusso of Frankfort. He was predeceased by his sisters, Rose Calo, Elizabeth DiPerna, and Frances DiPerna; his brothers and their wives, Rocco and Lucy DiPerna, and Anthony and Helen DiPerna; his sister-in-law, Theresa DiPerna; and his brother-in-law, Angelo DeRusso. The family extends gratitude to the physicians, nurses, and staff of the Emergency Room at Faxton-St. Luke’s Hospital, especially Dr. Paul Koenig for their compassionate concern and outstanding professionalism; Dr. Anthony Jadhon, Joseph’s longtime physician and friend; and Kunkel Ambulance Service and the Utica Fire Department for their many responses and kindness extended to Joe. Visitation will be held Sunday (today) from 2:00 – 5:00 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. DiPerna’s honor to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Joseph’s funeral service will commence on Monday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony of Padua Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Graveside service with Military Honors will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Joseph L. DiPerna, Sr.

October 9, 1916 - June 14, 2007