Mary Ann (Perretta) Pilawa

Mary Ann (Perretta) Pilawa, age 69, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center after a courageous battle with cancer. At the time of her passing, her loving family was by her side. Born in Utica on July 1, 1938, Mary Ann was the daughter of the late Victor A. and Catherine “Kay” (Dulan) Perretta. She was raised and educated locally, graduating from T. R. Proctor High School with the class of 1957. At one time she was married to Casimir M. Pilawa. Mary Ann was employed as a teller at the Marine Midland Bank. Upon the birth of her son, she devoted many years to being a mom and tending to her home. She also obtained a Teacher’s Assistant certification which led to a full time position with the Utica City School District at Albany St. School. She worked in the capacity of teacher assistant for special education classes, from which she retired. Mary Ann had a keen sense of humor who was always delighted by being in the company of her family and friends. With great strength of character, she appreciated and was grateful for the good things that came into her life, especially in the face of adversities known to all of us. Some of Mary Ann’s best memories of her youth were of the family home on Mohawk St. where she shared life with such special people. During her spare time, she enjoyed games of chance, a casual evening with friends dining out, and she enthusiastically pursued the fine art of shopping. Mary Ann is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Michael, Sr. and Debbie Pilawa of N. Utica; her grandchildren, Michael Pilawa, Jr., and Christopher Pilawa; her brother and sister-in-law, George F. and Jo Ann Perretta of Trotwood, OH; her devoted sister and brother-in-law, Frances “Fran” and Donald Leo of Deerfield; her nieces and nephews, Philip and Joanna Perretta, Patti and Stephen Brun, Peter Perretta, Gina and Daryl Ryder, Angela and Mike Brinkman, Samuel Leo and Kristy Williamson, and Theresa Leo. Always close to her heart was the memory of her niece, Pamela Perretta, who preceded her in death. She also leaves several great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws. Her life was blessed with the long time friendships of Patty Gigliotti, Jeanne Castronovo, and Phyllis Cittadino. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Oleg Dulkin and staff for their understanding and compassion in the care of Mary Ann; Dr. Dilip Kachare whose professional talents were comforting and were above and beyond expectations; the nurses and staff of Unit 3B at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center for their attentive and empathetic care; the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center Oncology Unit for the outstanding dedication, especially Beth Williamson whose friendship was so meaningful, and attendant Alan Zehic who was heaven sent. The care that Mary Ann received at the Masonic Care Community of NY was a time of great reprieve for her; thanks also to Sandy Srour, and Theresa Brindisi who were not only cousins but were supportive and loving in their many acts of kindness; her neighbors Nancy Mancuso and Bonnie Wetherbee whose graciousness will never be forgotten; and Josephine Fanelli who was so generous with time and love. Visitation will be held Friday (today) from 4:00-8:00 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 contributions in Mary Ann’s honor to the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation or the Regional Cancer Center; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Mary Ann’s funeral service will commence on Saturday morning at 8:00 from the funeral home and at 9:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.