Louis S. Degni, Sr.

Mr. Louis S. Degni, Sr., age 83, of Utica, passed away on Friday, January 27, 2006, at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center after a brief illness. His family was by his side at the time of his passing. Born in Utica on November 28, 1922, Louis was the son of the late Michael and Anita (Vespia) Degni. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of World War II, he served with the U.S. Army 517th Artillery in the Asiatic and Pacific Theaters of Operation. On September 20, 1947 he was joined in marriage with the former Anna Petrillo with whom he shared a loving and devoted union of almost 40 years prior to her passing on September 6, 1984. A self-employed painting contractor, Mr. Degni owned and operated the American Painting and Decorating Co., Inc. together with his wife. Through his professional skill and his good business practices, he served the community for many years prior to his retirement. For 61 years Louis was a member of the American Legion, Post #1290, and he also belonged to the 517 Field Artillery B.N. Assn. In earlier years, he offered his time and efforts as a member of the Maynard Volunteer Fire Dept. For Louis, his family was the first and foremost priority of his life and of his heart. The needs of his loved ones always took precedence over his own. In addition, his selfless, kind-hearted, and understanding nature motivated him to extend a helping hand to anyone requesting or requiring assistance. He helped many people establish successful careers of their own by developing a plan that provided them with training, knowledge, a solid foundation in a craft or trade, and an honorable work ethic. His good-hearted character was just as evident in his personal life. He had a deep affection for all the neighborhood children and they reciprocated with both love and respect. In fact, he was a caring and exemplary father figure to many individuals of all ages, both on the job and throughout his local community. In his leisure time, he enjoyed bowling and fishing. In addition, he especially loved to spend time at his Camp on the Black River near Boonville. He was of the Episcopal Faith. Mr. Degni is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Anita L. and Kenneth Volz of Deerfield; a son and daughter-in-law, Louis S. Jr. and Pamela Degni of Miami, FL; his grandchildren, Mark L. Volz of Deerfield, Toni and Willie Alvorado of Orlando, FL, Erica Degni of the U.S. Army, stationed in Hawaii; his great-granddaughter, Alex Alvorado; and his daughter-in-law, Deidrea Degni of Coral Springs, FL. His survivors also include three sisters and a brother-in-law, Carolina M. Deater, Jennie Forte, both of Utica, and Eleanor and Raymond Vescera of Baldwinsville; a brother, Dante H. Degni of Clifton Park, NY; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; his in-laws, Carmella Petrillo of FL, Lena Petrillo of Utica, Rosabelle Degni of Vernon, Susanne Degni of NC, and Alexandria Lake of Utica. He also leaves many dear and special friends. Mr. Degni was predeceased by his siblings, Stella Graziano, Vincenza Ciccone, Victor Degni, Michael Degni, John F. Degni, and Felix Stranges; and a very dear cousin, Arcangelo "Arcy" Degni. The family offers its sincere thanks to Louis's longtime physician, Dr. O'Malley. Visitation will be held today (Tuesday) from 5-8 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The American Legion Fort Schuyler Post #1290 will assemble at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home to conduct ritualistic ceremonies. Services will be conducted at the funeral home on Wednesday at 12:00 noon. Interment will take place with Military Honors in Calvary Cemetery.

Louis S. Degni, Sr.

November 28, 1922 - January 27, 2006