William C. "Bill" Tinelli, Sr.

Mr. William C. “Bill” Tinelli, Sr., age 88, of Utica, passed away on Monday, September 25, 2006, at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on April 6, 1918, Bill was the son of the late Cosmo and Palma (Cavallo) Tinelli. He was raised and educated locally, and was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School, where he excelled in sports, notably in football, where he held the position of quarterback. On September 6, 1941 he married the former Helen E. Autore and the couple recently celebrated their 65th anniversary. In mutually respectful marriage, they innately knew each others needs and were committed to one another. Mr. Tinelli was employed as a route man, a career for which he was well-suited. He was a ‘people person’, and he welcomed the daily interaction of his clientele, and valued his positions at DeIorio Bakery, Nabisco Co., and Carparelli Brothers. An exemplary family man, Bill viewed the responsibility of raising his family as his greatest joy. The love of his family was paramount, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren added a new dimension to his life. He was devoted to their activities and attended them with pride. Bill upheld a quiet presence, yet affirmed a strong character, devoted to his commitments and active each day of his life. He was an avid Yankee fan, and watched until the very last game they played. Physically active in his own right, Bill exercised by walking, especially with his ‘mall-walking friends’. A passionate gardener, he tended to vegetables and flowers, and shared his abundant harvest with family and friends equally. But his grandchildren and great-grandchildren had the “first choice” of his efforts. Bill and Helen traveled with their dear friends for many years, and they looked forward to spending the winter months in Marco Island, Florida. Many memories unfold of Bill participating in card games with family and friends, especially Bob and Arlene. Also, his family has a special memory of the treasured Easter crosses that Bill fashioned from palm leaves acquired at Palm Sunday Mass. He was a faithful parishioner of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Mr. Tinelli is survived by his devoted wife, Helen; his daughters and son-in-law, Joanna and Michael Clark of Utica, and Doreen E. and Robert Jesionowski of Rochester, his son, Dr. William C. Tinelli, Jr. and Tami Copley of Clayton, NY; his grandchildren, Kristen and Anthony Vennero, Michael and Marian Clark, Stephen and Barbara Clark, Lisa and Timmy Hudson, Jill and Larry Ferrarini, Lisabeth and Ryan Lehay, Jennifer and Salvatore Arbore, Kimberly Jesionowski, Robert Jesionowski, and Jeffrey Jesionowski; his adored great-grandchildren, Alaina and Becky, William and Matthew; Devin; Sammy, Joey, and Jessica; Amelia, and Victoria. In addition, he leaves a sister, Vita Graziano of Utica, his nieces and nephews, especially acknowledging Marilyn and Andre J. Esposito, and Janet and Mark P. Marriott Tinelli; great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. His extended family includes his in-laws, Johanna Flemma, Elizabeth Longo, William Autore, and Robert Autore. As a couple, Bill and Helen were blessed with many friends who shared wonderful social gatherings. He was predeceased by his sisters, Catherine Ignazzi, and Mary Patterson; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Anthony and Mary Tinelli, and John and Marian Tinelli; and his brother-in-law, Frank Graziano. The entire family offers its heartfelt thanks to Dr. Dang and Dr. Yoss, and the 5th floor staff of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, especially Tracy, Julie, Rick, and Doug. All of Bill’s caregivers were extremely compassionate and assisted Bill with remarkable and adoring care. Thanks also to Father Joe Salerno for his spiritual support and his personal efforts for Bill and Helen to recently attain a renewal of their wedding vows. Visitation will be held today (Tuesday) from 4-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Mr. Tinelli’s Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Entombment will take place in the Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

William C. "Bill" Tinelli, Sr.

April 6, 1918 - September 25, 2006