Patricia A. Cannon

Patricia A. Cannon, age 66, passed away unexpectedly in the comfort of her home in New Hartford, NY, on Monday, July 17, 2006. Born in Peru, Indiana, on June 8, 1940, Patricia was the daughter of Anne M. (Carbone) Cannon and the late Clarence “Jim” Cannon. Pat received her B.A. and M.A. in English studies from the University of Michigan. She was a proud and devoted alumna. Initially, Patricia worked for the housing department at the University of Michigan before relocating to Utica to accept a position as an instructor and director of housing at Utica College. For over 25 years, Patricia taught English at T.R. Proctor High School, retiring in 1996. The classroom was Pat’s favorite forum, but she also lent her time and expertise to many committees and planning sessions, and served as director for numerous student theatrical productions. In keeping with her love of the theater and performing, Patricia was an important part of the Players of Utica community. Her many and varied contributions included acting, writing and directing several original children’s productions, working backstage and as stage manager, and box office. Pat was currently the secretary of the Board of Directors and served on the play reading, publicity, and nominating committees. Pat’s association with Players resulted in the formation of many valuable and long-lasting friendships. In her retirement years, Patricia joined the staff at Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., as obituary composer; in this capacity; her wordsmith skills were greatly appreciated by many families. She was a communicant of Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where she attended daily mass. Patricia was truly extraordinary in myriad ways: for her powerful intellect and razor-sharp wit; for her unceasing acts of kindness and thoughtfulness, for her innate and unwavering sense of morality and humanity; and for her unbounding spirit and joyful temperament. These qualities and innumerable others made Pat a consummate teacher and professional, a trusted and valued friend and confidante, a concerned and loving daughter and niece, and a soulful sister and aunt. Patricia is survived by her mother, Anne, with whom she resided; a sister and brother-in-law, Mary K. and Jerry DeGrazia, of Williamsburg, MI; and a cherished niece and nephew, Nicholas DeGrazia and Sarah DeGrazia, both of MI; an aunt, Irene Carbone of New Hartford; several cousins; and a multitude a friends who were so intrinsic to her life in Utica. Pat was predeceased by aunts and uncles: Kate Carbone, Ange Carbone, John and Georgeann Carbone, John and Katherine Cannon, Bernadette and Harry Baltzell, and Katherine and Joseph Hasselschwert. The family wishes to thank Edwards Ambulance Service, and the New Hartford Police Dept. for their timely response; they are also grateful that Father Joe Salerno, Deacon Greg Kreinheder and Pat’s friends were present to pray for her and to offer their loving support. Visitation will be held on Thursday, from 4-7 at Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Pat’s funeral will commence on Friday morning at 11:30 from the funeral home and at 12:30 at the Church Our Lady of Lourdes where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. For those wishing to make a contribution, please consider the Players of Utica Building Fund and R.I.F. (Reading Is Fundamental) Envelopes will be available at the Funeral Home. Burial will take place next to her father in Mt. Kelly Cemetery of the Sacred Heart Parish in Dearborn, MI at the convenience of the family.

Patricia A. Cannon

June 8, 1940 - July 17, 2006