Joseph M. "Joe" Graziano

Mr. Joseph M. “Joe” Graziano, age 74, of Utica, passed away on Friday, December 18, 2009 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and support of his wife and family. Born in Utica on December 30, 1934, Joseph was the son of the late Serafino “Scabby” and Rose (Gaeta) Graziano. Raised and educated locally, Joe was a graduate of TR Proctor High School with the class of 1952. During these years, he played the saxophone with the school band and was a contestant on the Ted Mack’s original amateur competition hour. He also studied at Utica College of Syracuse University and Ithaca College. A veteran of the US Marine Corps, Joe was stationed in Hawaii and played in the Marine Corps Band. At one time, he had been married to the former Joanne Devivi, a blessing that bestowed him seven children. Joe was a vital part of his family business and later the owner and operator of Graziano’s Regal Restaurant located on the corner of Jefferson Avenue and Bleecker Street for many years. He will be remembered as a masterful bartender, the mainstay of casual family dining with old world recipes, and the maker of the “greatest pizza in town”. On February 27, 1973, he was wed to the former Carm Colucci. They shared in a close and loving marriage and partnership until her passing on May 23, 2000. Joe's love of broadcasting began in the 1950’s. He had a well-suited personality, an enchanting voice, and a vast knowledge of music which enhanced his successful career. He was proficient in the recollection of the composers and singers of the music of the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. He also had the pleasure of meeting many of these legendary performers. Joe had been employed by numerous local broadcasting companies throughout the Mohawk Valley. The highlights of his working years included his affiliation with the Danny Fusco Show, and most recently the “Cuppa Joe Show”, a daily broadcast that kept the community entertained with nostalgic music, and information of joyous events and sentimental occasions. Joe’s show was one of the most listened to adult standard programs in Central New York and was also available on the internet. Whatever choice of music Joe played, he put a smile on the face of his listeners. October 26, 2003 marked the union with Shirlee (Wood) Sweet-Testa. They enjoyed a true hearted marriage that was uplifting to both of their souls. Foremost, Joe was a devoted family man. He had an amazing knack of getting to know people intimately and holding them in a special and sacred friendship. He was a great conversationalist, storyteller, man of integrity, and one who possessed a strong faith; all characteristics that made him a true and loyal friend. Proud to have been born of Italian heritage and raised in East Utica, he composed a CD which reflected upon the wonderful memories of his youth, the relationships that he honored, and the traditions he respected; all of which came from this valuable time in his life. Throughout the years, some of his favorite passions were his love of music, the game of golf, and his enthusiasm for sports, especially his rooting for the NY Giants and Mets. In his earlier days he enjoyed hunting with his father and bowling. Numbered among Joe’s special accomplishments was his ability to touch so many people’s lives and the fact that he leaves a legacy of admiration and respect. His civic and social affiliations include the Sons of Italy Lodge #2054 where he held many friendships, the Comity Club, the VFW Post 502 Ilion, the Proctor Boys, and a past member of the city’s Zoning Board. He practiced his faith at St. Anthony of Padua Parish, St. Agnes Church, and more recently Our Lady of Lourdes. Surviving are his wife, Shirlee; his blended family, children, Kristin Graziano of SC, Carla and Bob Brown of VA, Joseph “Joey” Graziano of Utica, John and Roz Graziano of SC, Michael Graziano, Mark Graziano, Anthony and Lisa Graziano, all of VA, Rocco S. and Amy Graziano of Utica; Deborah and Erick Price of Deerfield, Hollie and Kevin Lansing of Whitesboro, Jay and Shelby Sweet of Chadwicks; twenty grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. His survivors also include his sister, Theresa “Terry” and Doug Manning of Whitesboro and Venice, FL; his brother and sister-in-law, Vincent R. and Paula Graziano of Durhamville, NY; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and several aunts and uncles; his in-laws, Lena Graziano D’Ambro, Phyllis and Richard Lovecchio, and Harry and Yvette Hulett. Joe was blessed with many wonderful and faithful friends with special mention of Gino and Louise. He was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Graziano in 1962. The family wishes to thank Dr. Joseph Booth and Dr. Anthony DeIorio for their professional medical guidance; the Acacia Homecare Company especially the nurses and physical therapists; the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center especially those of the Allen Calder wing; and Rev. Joseph Salerno for his spiritual friendship; all the family who have shown support, the many friends who have offered kindness, and the community and his listeners for their concern. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 3-6 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, 2222 Genesee Street, Utica. For those wishing to remember Joe, contributions may be made to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center or the Sons of Italy Scholarship Fund; envelopes will be available at the service. At the conclusion of visitation on Tuesday evening at 6:00, Joe’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life will be offered with military honors. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Joseph M. "Joe" Graziano

December 30, 1934 - December 18, 2009