Lena M. (Intino) Buck

Mrs. Lena M. (Intino) Buck, age 87, a dear mother and child of God, went home to her Lord on Thursday, January 15, 2015 at 4:30 PM guided by the Blessed Mother and St. Anthony, as well as the presence of her daughter by her side. Born in Utica on December 11, 1927, Lena was the daughter of the late John, Sr. and Mary (Annese) Intino. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1946. In 1950, she was united in marriage to Harry J. Buck and to that union came the blessing of two children; Harry passed away on February 24, 2014. Lena worked for 25 years as a cashier at the Brigano Brothers Grocery Store located on South Street. She made many lasting friendships and shared a kinship with the Briganos which brought her joy because they were all ‘family’. A quiet, peaceful, loving, person, Lena’s Catholic faith sustained her and guided her life. Many people marveled at her strength, courage, and accepting nature which were spiritual gifts derived from her deep faith. This past holiday season, she only had one wish, and that was to attend Mass at her home parish of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church on Christmas Day, an important and meaningful event that gave her peace and joy. Her wish came to fruition as an act of God, for after Christmas she was hospitalized and began the last stage of her life’s journey. Lena enjoyed many things in her life, notably her many friends with whom she played Bingo. A generous and gifted baker, she will be remembered for her delicious cookies and confections. For years, she collected Heirloom Dolls and with her vast array, many were given as gifts. She tended to them, dusted them, and re-arranged the collection, always displaying them to perfection. It was in 1962 that Lena became the greatest and most loyal Mets fan of all. She never missed a televised game of her “Miracle Mets” and several times she traveled to Shea Stadium. It is truly believed that she will now and forever be an angel in the outfield at Citi Field! Go, Mets! Go, Mom! She was a member of the former Sons of Italy Lodge and a faithful communicant of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Lena is survived by her loving daughter and best friend, Maryann E. Buck, with whom she shared a home; her son and daughter-in-law, Harry A. and Cindy Buck of Utica; and her brother, Mario Intino of Las Vegas. She also leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. She was pre-deceased by her brother and sister-in-law, John Jr. and Elaine Intino; and her sisters and brothers-in-law, Anna and Michael Maggio, and Frances and Wes Houle. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Arul Kannan whose expertise in Elderly Care was of great comfort. In the past two years, Lena was blessed with the assistance and concern of so many who cared for her: Stan and Barrie Czerkies who were outstanding friends and loving people in so many ways; Fr. Mark Kaminski for his continual spiritual support and visits; her home caregivers, Amanda and Penny, who were endless in their care for Lena and who also brought their children, Dominic, Dallas, Marlinda, and Joshua, who were Lena’s ‘adopted grandchildren’ who filled her heart with joy; the staff of the 2nd floor of the St. Joseph Nursing Home and the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. who were of great support during her final days. “Mom, you were so strong and brave throughout your life and during your illness. You were an inspiration to many, and now it is time for you to rest in peace in the arms of your maker. God Bless You, Mom. You were the greatest. Thank you for your love, care, and friendship. You will be missed and will be forever in my heart!” Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Lena’s memory to St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church in lieu of flowers; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Lena’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday afternoon at 1:00 from the funeral home and at 2:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

Lena M. (Intino) Buck

December 11, 1927 - January 15, 2015