Mr. Norman P. Castello

UTICA - Mr. Norman Peter Castello, age 87, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 31, 2017 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his cherished granddaughter Jodi and family friend Alan Orsino by his side. Born in Utica on May 20, 1930, Norman was the son of the late Giacchino “Jack” and Vincenza “Chancy” (Scianna) Castello. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School and continued his education at R.P.I. (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute) where he earned a (B.M.E.) Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree. On July 4, 1953 he married the former Elizabeth Pagliaro with whom he shared 50 years in a devoted union focused on raising their family. Elizabeth passed away on April 26, 2004. During his later years, on May 8, 2009, he entered into a second union with the former Frances E. Zumbo, until Frances passed away on April 9, 2014. Norman worked as an Engineer at the General Electric Company/Aerospace Engineering Division (AED) from February 1953 to June 1990. He enjoyed a long and illustrious career specializing in Mechanical Design & Producibility Enginnering. Norman was a charismatic, congenial man blessed with wit, humor, and a smile that would warm your heart. He was honest, sincere, and genuine. Norman was a man of integrity who embraced family values and was supportive, encouraging, and devoted, especially to his grandchildren. He always remembered important family dates and celebrations. As a talented vocalist he sang in the choir at Grace Episcopal Church and music had a special place in his heart. Every Christmas he spread the holiday spirit by playing the role of Santa Claus for family and friends. He was a nature and wildlife enthusiast, an avid hunter and fisherman, and he and his wife Liz enjoyed birdwatching and astronomy. He participated in bowling and softball and was a fantastic pitcher playing into his late 60’s. Norman was a member of the Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity, a brotherhood of friends; the Utica Citizens Corps, the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, and the Utica Citizens Corps Veterans Association where he achieved the rank of Captain. He practiced his Catholic creed as a communicant of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Norman is survived by his daughter, Auria Jaclynne Castello-Gerhardt and her husband Gary M. Gerhardt of Deerfield; his son and daughter-in-law, Norman Todd and Marie Castello of Goode, Virginia; his grandchildren, Jodi-Elise Castello and her husband Patrick Maniccia, Julie Audra Castello-Gerhardt, Gary Norman Castello-Gerhardt; Vincenza Castello Moody and her husband Doug Moody, Stephen Joseph Castello, and Daniel Todd Castello; and his great-grandson, Dominic James Moody. He also leaves in-laws, Lorraine and Karl Fezer, Lucille Giardano, Paul and Nancy Pagliaro, Amadeo and Patricia Pagliaro, Rose Protono, Joseph and Carol Zumbo, Vin and Joan Zumbo, Anthony and Clara Zumbo; and his step-son and daughter-in-law, Gerard and Rachael Barberio and their family of Utica. He also leaves his many nieces and nephews, with special mention of Joey Zumbo; great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his infant brother, Gaetano Castello who passed in 1936; his brother and sister-in-law, Frank and Grace Castello; and his in-laws, Walter and Carol Pagliaro. The family is grateful to the St. Elizabeth Medical Center/Special Care Unit nursing and medical staff for their care and compassion. Visitation will be held Sunday afternoon from 3:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Norman’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday morning at 10:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. Committal prayers and Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Mr. Norman P. Castello

May 20, 1930 - July 31, 2017