Mr. William F. "Bill" Meola

Mr. William F. “Bill” Meola, age 70, passed away from the world that he loved on Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at New York Columbia Presbyterian Hospital after a valiant battle with complications of a liver transplant. His loving family never left his side. Born in Utica on February 11, 1946, William was the son of the late William G. “Bill” and Rosemary P. (Balsamo) Meola. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1964. He furthered his education at Utica College of Syracuse University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He continued to work towards his Master’s degree at SUNY Oswego. Bill married his high school sweetheart, the former Angela M. Fusco, with whom he shared nearly 50 years. They were the love of each other’s life and were equally a pillar of strength for one another. Bill and Angela were inseparable and their marriage was an inspiration to their children. Bill began his career as a science teacher at Notre Dame High School. He subsequently accepted a position with the Utica City School District teaching 7th and 8th grade science at Seymour Grammar School. Bill was a compassionate teacher with inspiring ideas, and he touched the minds and hearts of his students. In 1972, Bill charted a change in his career course which brought him to several insurance and investment companies. He uniquely associated himself with the banking industry and eventually he would establish insurance agencies within the banks. Bill was particularly proud of his affiliation with the Jim Caldwell Insurance Company and the formation of the Meola Agency within the company where his wife was his “go-to” person. For many years, he taught a New York State Insurance Licensing course as well as continuing education courses. Bill was a generous, giving man, and if you were his friend, you were golden. He also had strong convictions and many stories. He had an education in all facets of life and a strong work ethic. His handshake was a contract that he honored. He was a good provider and an inspiration to his loved ones. As a dad and poppa, he was the best-of-the -best! He made you feel loved and pampered. He invested all his energy in his children and grandchildren, and his legacy lies within them. Bill was a true gentleman and a people magnet! He was authentic, motivational, well-versed, optimistic, and energetic. He appreciated good food and good times filled with family and friends. He was proud that he was true to his word, a lost virtue in today’s world. He was politically minded and a staunch Republican involved in local politics. He was always athletic and played sports on a personal level. He knew the game and coached many youth teams. Bill was an “honorary” dad to so many local young people who were blessed by his guidance and remember him to this day. When his granddaughter came along, he came to appreciate the art of ballet, enduring many hours of performances. Bill was a longtime communicant of St. Agnes Church and continued to practice his Catholic faith at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Parish. Bill is survived by his wife, Angela; his son and daughter-in-law, William A. “Bill” and Jodi Meola of Rome; his daughter and son-in-law, Kara and Craig Stitsinger of Ohio; his grandchildren, Gianna Meola, Ryan & Samantha Smith; Jake Stitsinger, and Marc Stitsinger; and his great-grandchildren, Grace and Cash. He also leaves his siblings, Joseph and his wife Marcia Meola of Iowa, Donna Brutto of Utica, Dan Meola of Syracuse, and Danette Meola of Whitesboro; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles, Joan Velletto, and Sally and Raymond Arcuri; and his in-laws, Patty and Dan Sanders of Rome, and David J. Delaney of Chittenango. Bill was blessed with his Columbus Avenue family, his Monday Night card buddies, his garage crew, and his “brother”, Mike Macchione, who was by his side from the beginning to the end. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Anthony J. and Mary R. Fusco; and his sister-in-law, Regina M. Delaney. The family extends their appreciation to Dr. Fred Talarico and staff for their support and concern; and to all those who were generous with prayers, gifts, and tokens of love. Visitation will be held Sunday from 3:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. William’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday morning at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. Entombment will take place in Christ Our Saviour Mausoleum in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. William F. "Bill" Meola

February 11, 1946 - January 10, 2017