Stephen J. Zizzi

Mr. Stephen J. Zizzi, age 89, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, November 17, 2009 in the comfort and privacy of his home. Born in Utica on July 18, 1920, Stephen was the son of the late Stephen and Antoinette (Semeraro) Zizzi. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School. He furthered his studies at the Ithaca Conservatory of Music where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Music. He never stopped learning, and was proud of his accomplishment of earning a Master of Science degree at the State University of NY at Albany. He continued to add to his knowledge by furthering his education in the area of Administration, taking courses at Syracuse University and SUNY Albany. He was proud of the fact that he was able to provide the funds for his education through sacrifice by playing with dance bands locally. On August 12, 1945 he married the former Mary Jo Carach with whom he shared 64 years. Stephen was touched that his love of music and piano playing inspired the musical abilities of his family. A gifted musician, he established his teaching career in the field of Music with the Forestport and Brookfield Central Schools. He then gained a position with the Utica City School District as a classroom teacher and then as an attendance supervisor, the position from which he retired. He loved music and shared his talents for many years playing different venues, offering his virtuosity as a professional musician into his 80’s. He also enjoyed performing locally with the Red Band, and took pleasure in people being entertained by his music. He was a member of the Mohawk Valley Musicians’ Association Local 51, and a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Stephen is survived by his wife, Mary Jo; his daughters and sons-in-law, Rosemary and Eugene Galime of Clinton, and Ellen and Joseph Karwacki of Marcy; and his grandchildren, John Karwacki and fiancée Maureen Judycki, Kristen Karwacki of Brooklyn, Curtis Karwacki, and Joey Karwacki. Survivors also include his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Vinnie Esposito, and Helen and Chuck Hendrickson. He was predeceased by two infant brothers, and his sister, Palma Stanford. The family would like to express sincere thanks to the Utica Police Department and the Utica Fire Department for the care and professionalism in their response. Visitation will be held Saturday from 11:00-12:00 noon at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St. corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions in Stephen’s honor to the Mohawk Valley Musicians’ Association Local 51 Stephen J. Zizzi Memorial Fund, 1805 Baker Ave., Utica, NY 13501; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Stephen's funeral service will commence on Saturday afternoon at 12:00 from the funeral home and at 1:00 at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Stephen J. Zizzi

July 18, 1920 - November 17, 2009