Mr. Philip R. Capraro

Mr. Philip R. Capraro, Sr., age 91, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 in the dignity of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on June 8, 1924, Philip was the son of the late Thomas and Josephine (Flori) Capraro. He was raised here and attended local schools. A proud patriot and veteran of World War II, he attained the rank of Sergeant while serving with the United States Army/42nd “Rainbow” Infantry Division. He saw action in many of the major engagements in the European Theatre of Operations including the landing at Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. During his participation in various campaigns on the battlefields of Europe, he earned three Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars for his display of extraordinary valor and service. A true hero who knew both the heartache and the nobility of war, he earned the well-deserved honors and the admiration bestowed upon him for his bravery, his respect for country, and his love of freedom. On November 8, 1947 he was joined in marriage with the former Ida S. DeCuffa with whom he shared a union of 68 years. Throughout their entire relationship, Philip and Ida were the focus of each other’s lives. With their loving hearts as the foundation of their marriage and a shared dedication to the well-being of their children, they shared the blessing and responsibilities of family life. As a happy and devoted couple as well as excellent parents, they served as exemplary role models for their loved ones. Upon his return to Utica, after the war, Mr. Capraro continued his affiliation with the military. He joined the NY National Guard and some years later was called to duty on the home front during the Korean Conflict. He had a successful and admirable career as a superintendent at the Parkway Armory in Utica, prior to his retirement in 1975. Philip was a kind and considerate individual whose respect for others was evident in his every word and deed, and in the values he instilled in his children. He was also actively involved in many community and church groups, selflessly giving of his time, effort, and talent to enhance the lives of others. He was a Camp Ranger with the Boy Scouts of America. He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Stars & Stripes Chapter #82 where he served on the organization’s Ritual Team. He belonged to the American Legion, Post #229 in North Utica, as well as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and the Loyal Order of Moose where he loved attending dances and social events. A communicant of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church, he was deeply involved with parish life, serving his fellow parishioners in many ways. He was an Usher, a member of the Holy Name Society, and an annual volunteer to help organize and facilitate the St. Cosmo and St. Damian celebration. Philip is survived by his wife, Ida; his sons, Philip R. Capraro Jr. and fiancee Peggy Rygh of FL, and Gerald A. Capraro, Sr. of NC; his daughter and son-in-law, Suzanne and Wayne Smith of Utica; his grandchildren Sonia and Jaffa Phoenix of CO, Kelly Capraro of Dolgeville, Dr. Gerald Jr. and Jessica Capraro, and Michelle Capraro, all of NC, Robert Smith, and Steven Smith, both of Utica; and his 12 great grandchildren. He also leaves his in-laws, Angela Capraro of Utica, and Nidia DeCuffa of CA; many nieces, nephews, cousins (and their families), and friends. Philip was predeceased by his brothers and sister-in-law, Alexander Capraro, Joseph Capraro, Louis and Connie Capraro, John T. Sr. and Mamie Capraro, and Patrick Capraro; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Caroline Capraro, Rose Capraro, Violet and Dominick A. Calenzo Sr., Lucille A. and Edward Calenzo, and “Sue” Deering; his brothers and sisters-in law, Angelo F. and Marie Christiano, Dominick “Deacon” and Frances DeCuffa, Giacomo “Jack” DeCuffa, and Albert “BaBa” DeCuffa. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of floral offerings, please consider donations to the Central New York Chapter #490 Military Order of the Purple Heart Fraternal Organization; envelopes are available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Phil’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday morning at 10:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark A. Kaminski. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery with Military Honors conferred.

Mr. Philip R. Capraro

June 8, 1924 - December 8, 2015