Mrs. Theresa (Geruntino) Lucas

Mrs. Theresa “Tessie” (Geruntino) Lucas, age 100, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 5, 2012 at the Masonic Care Community of NY with her devoted and loving daughters at her side. Theresa was born in Utica on April 4, 1912, the daughter of the late Anthony and Carmella (LaCanna) Geruntino. She married Charles C. Lucas with whom she shared 22 years prior to his passing on October 18, 1963. At the young age of 15, Theresa began working at the Oneita Knitting Mill. She subsequently held employment at the White Tower Restaurant, and retired from her position at the Utica Free Academy Lunch/Snack bar. Throughout her working years, Theresa enjoyed the many friendships made. She was very active in senior organizations, her latest interest being Elder Life and the Parkway Senior Center. Theresa generously volunteered her time to the Silver Tones Choir directed by Rose Hosp. Blessed with a beautiful singing voice, Theresa graciously performed at many local functions and nursing homes where her audiences looked forward to her solo performances. She derived true joy in entertaining others and knowing it brought happiness to them. She treasured the wonderful friendships made while being a member of the Silver Tones Choir. Theresa was a parishioner of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Theresa’s life was centered around her two daughters and their families. She was a wonderful, loving, and inspirational mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and her daughters carried the privilege of calling their mom – friend. She taught us by example how important family is, and to find joy in everyday life. Left to mourn Theresa are her daughters and son-in-law, Charlotte and Robert Madonia of Rome, NY, and Theresa Marie Mazzatti of New Hartford; her grandchildren, Mark Madonia of Rome, and Dana and Dino Madonia of Marcy and Dana’s father David Mazzatti. Theresa also leaves her great-grandchildren, Amanda, and Alicia of Rome, and Nicholas, and Joseph of Marcy. She also leaves her sister, Rose Jacob of VA; her brother and sister-in-law, John and Joan Geruntino of New Hartford; many nieces and nephews with special mention of her niece Sue D’Amore. Theresa also leaves her in-laws Marilyn Geruntino of Sherburne, and Pat and Carolyn Lucas of Utica. She was predeceased by her brothers Joseph , Rufus , and William Geruntino; her sisters Isabelle Magee, and Eva DiPiazza; and her in-laws Mary Colangelo, Katherine Bruni, John Lucas, Agnes Massi, and Geraldine Papelino. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff of the Amherst Neighborhood at the Masonic Care Community of NY, and a sincere thank you for all the loving and compassionate care given to Theresa. Theresa’s family will honor her life in a private gathering. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend Theresa’s funeral service and Celebration of her Centenarian Life which will commence on Friday afternoon at 1:30 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno. The family will greet guests at the conclusion of the service. Those wishing to express an act of kindness may make a donation to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital; envelopes will be available at the service. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery. The Eannace Funeral Home, 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. is providing the guidance in lighting the path for the Lucas family in commemorating Theresa’s life.

Mrs. Theresa (Geruntino) Lucas

April 4, 1912 - November 5, 2012