Romeo W. DeCola

Mr. Romeo W. DeCola, age 80, of Utica, passed away on Friday, February 10, 2012 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on July 17, 1931, Romeo was the son of the late Ernesto and Maria Christina (Circelli) DeCola. Raised and educated locally, and honorably served his country as a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. On July 24, 1954 he married the former Julia Usmail with whom he shared 44 years prior to her passing on March 28, 1999; Romeo and Julia shared an enduring love and devotion to each other. A welder by trade, Romeo worked at Midstate Steel until his retirement. Currently, he was under the employ of Walmart where he served as a door greeter, a position he truly loved, up until the time of his illness. He was so well-suited for this job because his outgoing personality allowed him to warmly welcome customers who endearingly remembered him by name. At home, he was a devoted husband, a kind and generous father, and an adoring grandfather. He held a great respect for nature and was an avid sportsman, hunter, and fisherman. Romeo is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Susan and Vincent Lamberto of New Hartford, and Donna and George Augunas of Ben Salem, PA; his sons and daughters-in-law, David and Anne DeCola of Whitesboro, and Daniel and Gail DeCola of Remsen; and his grandchildren, Ian and Jaime Lamberto of New Hartford, Bryce Lamberto of Las Vegas; Alex Augunas, Adam Augunas, and Autumn Augunas; Emily DeCola, and David DeCola. He also leaves his nieces, especially acknowledging Cheryl Gibson, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Evelyn DeCola, Christine Petyak of PA, and Virginia and Albert Santamaria of Barneveld. He was predeceased by his brothers and sister-in-law, Mattio and Carmella “Pudgie” DeCola, George and Nancy DeCola, and Adolph “Tuffy” DeCola; and his sisters and brother-in-law, Rose DeCola, and Mary and Nicholas Pezzulo. The family wishes to acknowledge the professionalism and courtesy of Dr. Atul Butala, and the 6th Floor Oncology Unit doctors, nurses, and staff at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, especially Shelly Letson. In keeping with Romeo’s wishes, the family will honor and celebrate his life at a private gathering. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Romeo W. DeCola

July 17, 1931 - February 10, 2012