Mr. Nicholas A. "Nick" Zegarelli

Mr. Nicholas A. “Nick” Zegarelli, age 80, of Utica, loving husband, father, and entrepreneur, passed away in the privacy of his home on March 12, 2012 with his loving family by his side, after suffering a stroke in October. Nicholas was born on May 3, 1931 in Ausonia, Italy, the only son of the late Michele “Michael” and Maria (Castelli) Zegarelli. At the age of six, he immigrated to the United States and Utica where he received his primary and secondary education. He also attended Mohawk Valley Community College. A proud veteran, he honorably served his country in the United States Air Force for 4 years where he achieved the rank of Cadet. On April 26, 1954 he married the former Thelma Kemper with whom he shared 57 loving years, with many of those years focused on their growing family. Nick was a licensed plumber, and the owner and operator of James Street Plumbing. A master at woodworking and cabinetry he also established Utica Cabinets, Inc. A naturally self guided and driven man, both of his business endeavors were made successful with the help of his sons who he taught the value of a hard days work. But Nick’s constant focus was on raising his children. It was important to him that all of them had an education and he made sure they all received college degrees. He was also a devoted grandfather who gave constant advice and lent his grandchildren an understanding ear when they needed one. He was also very personable and would speak to anyone… and they listened! He was an honest man who was knowledgeable and wise. Nick also had a passion for working with his hands and enjoyed drawing and oil painting, especially landscapes and outdoor scenes. He took special pride in gardening and tending to his roses. His love of the outdoors kept him close to his family through hunting and endless stories of his adventures. He was a die-hard NY Yankees fan who never missed a game, as much as he may have wanted to call it a night, at times. He was a parishioner of Historic Old St. John’s Church. Besides his wife, Thelma, Nick leaves six sons and three daughters: Michael Zegarelli of Utica, Ronald and Cynthia (Stevener) Zegarelli of Oriskany, Richard Zegarelli of Rome, Marie and James Goodman of Marcy, Jacqueline Wuest and companion Frank Custodero of New Hartford, Cynthia Zegarelli of Utica, John and Joanne (Kalwara) Zegarelli of Whitesboro, Brian and Jane (Orbinati) Zegarelli of CA, and Mark Zegarelli of Utica; his 16 cherished grandchildren whom he adored: Michael, Tricia, Nicholas, Eric, Jessica, Jonathan, Christopher, Kathryn, Patrick, David, Jacob, Janine, Samuel, Rachel, Olivia, and Luke. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, and a brother-in-law, Mario L. Totaro. He was predeceased by his sister, Vincenza Totaro, and son-in-law, D. Michael Wuest. The family wishes to thank D & T Transport for their dependable services during Nick’s illness. Nick’s family will honor and commemorate his life in a private gathering. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Thursday morning at 10:00 at Our Lady of the Rosary Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Felix Colosimo. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. For those wishing to express an act of kindness in lieu of flowers they may make a donation to The Center for Dementia Research; envelopes will be available at the service. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Nicholas A. "Nick" Zegarelli

May 3, 1931 - March 12, 2012