John J. Passiatore

Mr. John J. Passiatore, 79, formerly of Hoover Ave. passed away with his loved ones by his side on Tuesday, June 21, 2005 in the Sitrin Health Care Center. John was born in Utica, October 8, 1925, son of the late Michele and Carmella (Fasano) Passiatore. He was educated in local schools and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School, Class of 1944. He remained active with his fellow graduates and helped to organize many class reunions. He later attended the New York School of Photography and remained an avid photographer. Following his schooling, John served our country in the US Army during WWII. On October 12, 1953, at St. Anthony of Padua Church, John was joined in marriage to the former Mary Louise Conte. John and Mary Lou enjoyed a very close and loving marriage for over thirty-seven years. His beloved wife passed away on June 25, 1990. At one time, Mr. Passiatore worked with Investors Diversified Services before becoming involved with the family business, Victor Conte Sales. He was a co-owner of Victor Conte Sales where he worked along with his wife and brother-in-law, for over forty-five years. John was a well known collector of Utica Memorabilia and at one time held the position of City Historian. He was also an active member of the Oneida County Historical Society, the Utica Kiwanis, the Comity Club and the American Legion of Clark Mills. A loving father and grandfather, John is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Joan and Carl Popolo of Carlisle, MA; his son and daughter-in-law, John and Patricia Passiatore of Whitesboro; five grandchildren, Elizabeth and Meredith Popolo and Matthew, Lauren and Brian Passiatore; one sister, Sylvia LiBritz; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Alfonse “Al” and Lois Conte; and also many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, with special acknowledgement to his lifelong and devoted friend, Joe Paladino. He was predeceased by two sisters, Teresa Scalingi and Betty Widrick. His funeral will be held on Saturday at 9 am from The Matt Funeral Home and at 10 am at St. Anthony of Padua Church with entombment in Calvary Mausoleum. Relatives and friends may call on Friday from 5-7 pm at The Matt Funeral Home, 700 Rutger Street at Mohawk St. in Utica. The family would like to thank his caregivers with special mention of his longtime aide and Guardian Angel, Jane Collins, whose loving care and compassion went far beyond all expectations. In lieu of flowers and in John’s memory please consider donations to the Oneida County Historical Society or any charity of your choice. Donations may be made at the funeral home. For directions to the funeral home, click the link above.

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