Rosario "Russ" Dalia

UTICA – Mr. Rosario “Russ” Dalia, age 84, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026. Born in Utica on July 7, 1941, Rosario was the son of the late George J. and Antoinette R. (Sanganetti) Dalia. He was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School, Class of 1959. He furthered his education at Utica College of Syracuse University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Mathematics. He later earned his Master’s degree in Geology/Science Education from Syracuse University, along with advanced study certificates in education from SUNY Cortland and The College of Saint Rose. On July 8, 1967, he wed the former Phyllis M. Lasowski, and the couple shared many wonderful years together, filled with special events and beautiful memories. Russ went on to make his mark in the field of education, serving as an earth science teacher in the Herkimer School District, as well as an adjunct instructor at SUNY New Paltz and SUNY Oneonta. He later became Superintendent of Schools for the Frankfort-Schuyler School District, Education Supervisor for the Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center, a respected curriculum writer, Chairman of the Committee on Special Education for the New York Mills Union Free School District, and Coordinator of the SUNY New Paltz/Utica Project. Russ also positively impacted the lives of countless students as a beloved football, swim, and tennis coach. Russ had a kind heart and always thought of others before himself. A faithful Catholic, he was an active parishioner of Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, where he served as a lector. He dedicated himself to his community in countless ways, including serving as president of the Board of Education, through a mayoral appointment to the City of Utica Youth Advisory Board, and with several other organizations focused on helping young people throughout the area. Russ was also a lifelong and devoted fan of the New York Giants. In his later years, he developed a love for golf and always had the drive to get out on the course and play, right up until his illness prevented him from doing so. Russ is survived by his wife, Phyllis. He cherished in his heart the memories of his daughter, Christina “Tina”, and son, Russell “Rusty” who preceded him in death. His loss is also felt by his many wonderful friends, especially Dominick Rasi, Paul Williams, Keith Heinrich, Patty Vacca, and Steve Bulger, and the beloved members of the national tennis team. He was preceded by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Stanley and Gladys (Wadas) Lasowski. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to his Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Mary, Mother of Our Savior, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St., Utica. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery

Rosario "Russ" Dalia

July 7, 1941 - May 22, 2026