Stephen J. "Steve" Wameling

Mr. Stephen J. "Steve" Wameling, age 58, of North Utica, passed away unexpectedly in the comfort of his home on Sunday, September 21, 2008. Born in Utica on September 16, 1950, Stephen is the son of Helen (Burns) Wameling and the late Joseph Wameling. He was raised and educated in Utica and was a 1968 graduate of Notre Dame High School. Upon graduation he entered the U. S. Army, proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War. He received numerous citations and commendations for valor among other honors, especially noting the Bronze Star, N.Y. State Conspicuous Service Cross, and the Distinguished Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1971, and his patriotism prevailed as the basis for the loyalty and love he held for his country. On December 7, 1974 he married the former Susan Catinella with whom he shared 33 years; they loved each other throughout their relationship and focused on the well-being of their family. Steve was first employed at Chicago Pneumatic Tool Co. until its closing. As a reservist with the U. S. Army, he obtained the position as unit administrator at Elihu Root Reserve Center on Burrstone Road. He subsequently worked for the U. S. Postal Service, where he began as a carrier and currently served as a clerk at the Pitcher St. Office. He was a member of the American Postal Workers Union, and the National Association of Letter Carriers. Steve was a joker at heart, and delivered his humor with great style, but he was serious about his support of the New York Yankees. After his time in the service, he always remembered his civic affiliations, and valued his memberships in the American Legion #229, Knights of Columbus, Malfan-Jones Post of the Whitestown Veterans of Foreign Wars, past commander of the VFW Post #368, and Vietnam Veterans of America. Steve loved his home and attended to details to make it perfect, and he was meticulous in his work. He was so proud of his boys, and he honored the fine young men they have become. He held them to high standards and they respected him for that. He was also a passionate fisherman who frequented his favorite spots at West Winfield, Unadilla Forks, and West Canada Creek, especially with his sons. Steve is survived by his wife, Susan; his sons, Stephen J. Wameling II of Utica, and Daniel J. “D.J.” Wameling and Jacqueline Sessa of Roanoke, VA; and his mother, Helen Wameling of Utica. Survivors also include his brothers and sister-in-law, Michael and Sherry Wameling of Rome, Joseph Wameling of Whitesboro, and Peter Wameling of Rome; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, including Robert Catinella of Las Vegas. He was blessed with many friends, with special mention of Larry Williams, John Griffith, and James Caldwell. He was predeceased by his brothers and sister-in-law, Thomas and Mary Jane Wameling, John R. Wameling, and David Wameling. Visitation will be held Wednesday (today) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The VFW Malfan-Jones Post #7393 will perform ritualistic services at 6:30 at the funeral home. Steve’s funeral service will commence on Thursday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery graveside with Military Honors.