Marie J. (Fiore) Panetta

UTICA - Marie J. (Fiore) Panetta, age 92, went home to be with the Lord when she passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023. Marie was born in Utica on June 24, 1931, the daughter of the late Rocco and Teresa Fiore. She was raised and educated in Oriskany where she grew up working in the family business, Fiore’s Market. She was a graduate of Oriskany High School. Although Marie aspired to attend college and pursue a career as a Social Worker, with the failing health of her grandmother and the family business, she chose to prioritize the needs of her family first. However, without the degree, she lived her life listening and helping others. On April 1, 1951, she married the love of her life, Joseph Richard Panetta. They had very little time together before Joseph boarded the USS New Jersey to serve in the U.S. Navy. Upon his return, they shared many cherished years together prior to Joseph’s passing on March 13, 1976. When her children were young, she was active in the PTO, Girl Scouts, Rotary Auxiliary, and The Women’s Guild at her church. In her later years, she volunteered at the Oriskany Museum. Upon selling the family business, Marie worked at the Razors Edge Hair Salon as a receptionist alongside her cousin, Ralph Squillace and Steven Davis, who was like another son to her. An amazing mother and exceptional role model, Marie's loving, kind, compassionate nature was evident to all who knew her. She provided for her family and was respected and loved by her neighbors, often sharing her wise advice. She had a beautiful smile and was an excellent cook. Marie loved her family and friends deeply and cherished her time spent with them. She was selfless and always put others’ needs before her own. Marie possessed a beautiful sense of humor and always counted her blessings. Marie was steadfast in her faith. She was an active member of St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Oriskany until its closing. Subsequently, she became a member of Historic Old St. John’s Church in Utica. Although she grieved the closing of her church, the transition was a smooth one with Rev. John Buehler who was a good family friend. Her devotion to the blessed mother, Padre Pio, and the Divine Mercy helped her maintain a grateful heart when faced with life’s challenges. Marie is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Donna and Michael Hinman, and Mary Ann and Anthony Brillante. She was predeceased by her son Joseph Rocco “Joe” Panetta in 2017, and her daughter Jo-Ann Talerico in 2017, leaving behind her sons-in-law, Robbie Talerico, and Ron Gwiazda. She also leaves to cherish her memory her beloved grandchildren, Carissa Hinman, Cara and Rusty Rainer, Michael J. Hinman; Christopher and Jennifer Brillante; Amanda and Jose Balseca, and Travis R. Talerico; and her great-grandchildren, Rexton Moran; Rocco, and Axel Rainer; Noelle, and Willow Hinman; Giovanni, and Lucas Brillante; and Dominic, and Camila Balseca. She also leaves brother-in-law Martin Panetta; Robert Panetta and sister-in-law Sina Panetta; many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins Marie was predeceased by her brother, Michael Fiore; her sister-in-law Flora Scialdo; sister-in-law Martha Panetta and her dear friend, Pearl Heirholzer, who she loved like a sister. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the caring and compassionate staff at Cedarbrook Village, The Lutheran Cottages and the Lutheran Home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Marie’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Friday, January 5, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Historic Old St. John's Church, 240 Bleecker St. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of the Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Marie's honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital online at www.stjude.org/donate or to the Association of Marian Helpers online at www.marian.org/donation; envelopes will also be available at the service. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Marie lived her life embodying the words of Padre Pio, "Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry," It was common practice for Marie to say “see you later”, rather than good bye, to her family, then bless each family member before leaving. She will be deeply missed by all who were touched by her gracious presence.

Marie J. (Fiore) Panetta

June 24, 1931 - December 29, 2023