Nan-Marie (Grillo) Kidwell

Mrs. Nan-Marie (Grillo) Kidwell, age 52, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, February 16, 2006, in the comfort of her home. Born in Utica on October 23, 1953, Nan-Marie was the daughter of the late Ralph Grillo and Lucretia Thomas. She was raised and educated locally. She was married to Bob Kidwell. Employed with the Diocese of Syracuse, Mrs. Kidwell worked for a number of years at St. Agnes School as well as at several other Catholic schools, serving as a certified Teacher's Assistant. Her most recent appointment was at Notre Dame High School. Nan-Marie was well suited for her chosen career as she was a woman who loved children and young people, and they, in turn, had great affection and respect for her. As a beloved mentor to them, she developed strong and long-lasting bonds with many of her students, not only helping them with the academic material, but also influencing them in many other aspects of their lives. In her home life, Nan-Marie's special qualities were just as evident. She was her mother's best friend and her son's guiding light. Nan-Marie met Bob in Texas, swept him off his feet and married August 19, 1978 in Utica. She made him a better man. Blessed with a heart of gold, a beautiful character, and a sincere personality, she was close, supportive, and loyal to loved ones and friends, always willing to offer advice or help, both of which came from her heart. She was known for her thoughtful opinions and lively conversation. It was said by family and friends that many of the world's problems were solved at her dining room table. Possessing a deep spiritual side to her nature, Nan-Marie was a communicant of St. Agnes Church where she was active in many parish activities, including Bingo and the annual church festivals. Mrs. Kidwell is survived by her mother, Lucretia Thomas; her husband, Bob; her son, Jon-Paul, who was the apple of her eye, and his fiance, Kimberly LaPorte. Also included among her survivors are her sister-in-law, Donna Hyde of Texas; a number of cousins, in-laws, cherished godchildren; and many special friends, including those whom she thought of as sisters, Bernadine Cornacchia, Candace Gazzal, Debbie Candido, Lorraine McGovern, Delores Caruso, and Valerie Velletto and their husbands; Rock, Joe, Alfred, John, Jimmy and Johnny V. A brother, Angelo Grillo, predeceased her. The family is deeply grateful to Msgr. Willenburg for his dedication, spiritual guidance, love, and concern. Visitation will be held today (Sunday) from 4-8 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Please omit floral offerings. Mrs. Kidwell's funeral will commence on Monday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Nan-Marie (Grillo) Kidwell

October 23, 1953 - February 16, 2006