Virginia A. "Pinky" (Inserra) Alsante

Virginia A. (Inserra) Alsante, affectionately known as “Pinky”, age 74, of Utica, passed away on Friday, February 11, 2011 at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse. Her dignified and peaceful passing occurred with the comfort and support of her loved ones by her side. Born in Utica on August 13, 1936, Pinky was the daughter of the late Frank and Cora (Taverne) Inserra. Raised and educated in Utica, she was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School Class of 1954. She subsequently pursued a course of study to earn her New York State License as an x-ray technician. On October 6, 1962 she married Fred A. Alsante with whom she shared nearly 50 years of marriage. Pinky began her healthcare career at St. Luke’s Hospital where she worked until 1966 when she left her employment as an x-ray technician to raise and care for her family. In 1980 she accepted a position with the Utica City School District in the Special Programs Department, which she thoroughly enjoyed and maintained until her recent illness. Pinky had a wonderful family life, a blessing which enhanced her passion as a mother. The magnitude of her love was of everlasting intent and her vitality as a “Nonnie” was tireless. She was fun-loving and optimistic, and her convictions were certain and true. She could be trusted with a confidence and was wise with her opinions, expectations, and judgment. Pinky knew how to be genuinely kind, gracious, and compassionate. A silent giver, many knew the blessings of her generosity of heart. She was a joy to be around, and often went beyond her own comfort zone to be of help to others. She was adventuresome, spontaneous, and loyal to her friendships; many of whom were life-long. A snapshot of Pinky’s life would include; the sport of swimming which was her favorite past-time, her many summers at Cedar Lake, and her adventurous and numerous travels, domestic and abroad. Pinky was steadfast in her religious faith and Catholic credo. She was devoted to novenas at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church as well as their activities and her home parish of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Pinky is survived by her husband, Fred; her daughter and son-in-law, Cora and Joseph Chirco of Jamesville, NY; her son and daughter-in-law, Fred and Denise (Borruso) Alsante of Utica; and her grandchildren, Ben, Max, and Francesca Chirco; Freddy, Anthony, and Santino Alsante. In addition, she leaves her nephews, Frank (Linda) Inserra of CO, and Steven (Cindy) Inserra of Liverpool; great-nieces, a great-nephew, and special cousins who shared her life and were at her side all during her illness. Pinky was one of those blessed people with an abundance of friends who were so dear to her heart. She was predeceased by her brother, Frank L. Inserra of Liverpool. It is not by chance that Pinky was surrounded by gracious people who stood by her side during difficult moments. It was through the works of her God, the dedication of physicians, healthcare professionals too numerous to mention, and prayers of her family and friends that sustained her. “Special angels” were present with Pinky and her family when they were most needed. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-7:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay Street, Utica. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Abraham House of Utica and Francis House of Syracuse; envelopes will be available at the service. Pinky believed that people needed to be cared for, and she held these organizations close to her heart because of their ability to help those in need. Pinky’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday morning at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Anthony P. LaFache. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Virginia A. "Pinky" (Inserra) Alsante

August 13, 1936 - February 11, 2011