Mrs. Vita R. (Casullo) Marino

N. UTICA – Mrs. Vita R. (Casullo) Marino, concluded her life in a gentle passing in her sleep on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in the comfort and dignity of her home, after being blessed with 96 years of life. Born in Herkimer on October 22, 1927, Vita was the daughter of the late Pasquale and Grace (Festa) Casullo. Vita was raised in her hometown and attended local schools. On October 15, 1949, she married Anthony F. Marino. Vita and Anthony were a team and very involved with each other's lives, always for the good. They were selflessly dedicated to their family’s every need. They balanced each other’s personalities and that was the reason for the tradition and logic they lived by; the couple shared 58 years together prior to Anthony’s passing on November 22, 2007. Vita embraced her role as a homemaker with fervor. Later, as the children matured, she assisted her husband and son in the family business, Mr. Nostalgia restaurant, by doing anything that was necessary or needed on their busy Friday nights. This demonstrated the unwavering commitment and determination that lived within her soul. Vita was a well put together woman, and she passed those traits on to her girls, all having a flair that she generated throughout the years. An innate caregiver, she showed genuine concern, and was truly a blessing to all who needed her and trusted in her. She was firm and spoke her piece, and people listened to her knowledge and wisdom. Vita was conservative with her heartfelt thoughts. She possessed a dependable and inspiring attitude with all she was able to accomplish. Vita’s home was her pride, always kept impeccable and tastefully decorated. She provided such a wonderful childhood for her children, especially acknowledging the sacrifice she made while caring for her beloved daughter, Gracie, for over 64 years. Some nostalgic memories include dining on Sunday as a whole family, which deepened familial bonds; it was one of the greatest days for them and gathering around the table slowed everyone to reconnect. The fun that she had with her family was so precious. In addition, they had a camp on Oneida Lake, which was another haven to gather to keep the family close. Vita was very hospitable and a wonderful cook, who had her own style and favorite dishes she prepared. To top it all off, she was also an amazing baker. If she knew you had a favorite of her delicacies, you could be sure she knew about it and would prepare it for you! She was very confident in her skills and was a natural leader. For her 96 long years of life, she was noticeably astute, blessed, and gifted. Surprisingly, she remained as aware of her surroundings as possible until the very end. Starting in Jr. High School, Vita became involved with classmates in the “Junior Miss Club” where she forged lifelong friendships. They met at each other’s homes for luncheons, and celebrations of special holidays full of hospitality and socialization for all. She also enjoyed playing Bingo wherever St. Agnes Church gathered for the benefit of the parish, a personal time for herself. Vita was a “bit” of a shopper; her clothing was always well matched, and every outfit was attractively attired. Naturally, in their adulthood, the other generations followed suit. Back in the day, all the family was welcomed to holiday gatherings at Vita’s, they were full day events; to have those days back again would be so tender. A devout Catholic, Vita maintained a close and trusting relationship with her God, this sustained her. She would not miss church for anything. Vita leaves behind her loving daughter, Vita DelBuono and her love Steve Altieri. She treasured in her heart the memories of her beloved children who preceded her, Antoinette Marie (Marino) Gaetano (2005), Patrick A. “Pat” Marino (2021), and Grace Ann Marino (2023). She is additionally survived by her son-in-law, Arthur L. "Archie" Gaetano, who loved and respected his mother-in-law; grandchildren, Annette Gaetano; Paul DelBuono, and Anthony DelBuono; and great-grandchildren, Amyah, Gino, and Grayson. She fondly remembered her brothers and sisters-in-law who preceded her, Leonard and Alice Casullo, Frank J. and Carmen J. Casullo, and Patsy A. “Tuner,” Jr. and Frances Casullo. She also leaves to cherish her memory a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Always present to her Aunt Vita was her niece, Rosemarie Pastorella, who considered Vita her second mother. She was additionally predeceased by her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Vincenzo and Antoinette (Danzo) Marino; and her in-laws, Rose (Marino) and Achille “Corky” Pastorella, Theresa “Terry” and Salvatore Gambino, Patsy “Pat” and Catherine “Kay” Marino, and Rocco “Rock” and Mary Marino. The love and sensitivity shared by Steve was tender, and he doted on Vita’s every need. He was always happy to be in her company, she loved him like a son, and he affectionately loved her as a mother; no one did things like Steve did. Dr. Francis Chabot was an intern when he first met this family and he proved to be an outstanding physician. His dedication to his profession was so obvious. He welcomed a personal relationship with Vita and her family; blessed was the Marino family to have had such a mutually rewarding relationship. Vita’s home was filled with outstanding caregivers who became part of the family. Frederika had such expertise and awareness of Vita’s needs, her professionalism was calming and always a priority. Lydia displayed such patience and personal attention, along with a little playful side. Sandra was gentle and kept Vita stimulated and entertained. Lisa was always present to Vita and her daily requirements and Nema was extremely diligent to the needs of the house and kept a watchful eye on Vita. Immense gratitude on behalf of Vita’s family is extended to the Utica Police Department and the Utica Fire Department Paramedics, especially Carl Nora and Tom Falzerine for their kindness, compassion, and the phenomenal way in which they tended to Vita at the time of her passing, they went above and beyond the call. The family will honor and commemorate her life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Vita’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. Memorial contributions in Vita's honor may be made to the Kelberman Center online at https://www.kelberman.org/giving/donate, the intentions are to benefit the Utica Promise Program; envelopes will also be available at the service. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum in Our Lady Gate of Heaven Patio.

Mrs. Vita R. (Casullo) Marino

October 22, 1927 - April 16, 2024