Enea Family Funeral Home

Home
United States
Ilion, NY
Enea Family Funeral Home

The Enea, Ciaccia, Applegate and Day Funeral Directors have been serving the families of the Mohawk In August of 1969, Harry J. Enea, Jr.

began his career in funeral service assisting Edward Holleran in the operation of Holleran Funeral Service in Herkimer. In January of 1972, he obtained his NYS Funeral Director's license, and also formed the Enea Monument Company. In the early 1980's, he purchased the Herkimer location subsequently adding his name. Harry has ambitiously dedicated himself to the families of the Mohawk Valley and the surrounding areas, and is proud to say his son is equally dedicated and is continuing the tradition. In 1975 Harry began helping Thomas Konchar in running Konchar Funeral Home in Little Falls, eventually buying this firm, which is now the Enea Family Funeral Home. Subsequently, the Shepardson Funeral Home firm merged their business with the Enea Family, forming the Konchar-Enea and Shepardson Funeral Home. In 1992 a fellow colleague, Robert Woody who ran the Smith - Woody Funeral Home in St. Johnsville, NY, put his trust in our firm to carry on his name and provide the utmost service to his community. We were honored, and took this opportunity and were anxious to now serve the families of Montgomery County. The name was eventually changed to Enea Family Funeral Home and Kevin Enea is the Funeral Director in charge. Throughout the years Harry's son Kevin decided to join his father in giving the families of Montgomery and Herkimer Counties the attention and professionalism they deserved. He went on and obtained his Funeral Director's license in 1995. He joined the family business and brought forth many new ideas and concepts to the ever-changing funeral industry. Kevin, along with Harry's nephew, Jason Cacciatore, are now in charge of the Enea Memorial operation, which encompasses D.H. Burdick Monument Company in Clinton, NY and DeRegis Monuments of Syracuse, NY which were both acquired by the Enea family. He is also very active in the community and the operation of Enea Family Funeral Homes. Throughout the years our firm was approached by many funeral conglomerates throughout the country looking to acquire our business but we decided to stay family owned and operated. With that in mind, and with the addition of Harry's son, Kevin, and encouragement from many families in the Ilion and Frankfort area, we opened our newest funeral facility, the Enea Family Funeral Home, between Frankfort and Ilion, in 1999. The 6500 square foot facility includes a children's play room, ample parking, a monument office, casket and vault display, and two very large and spacious gathering rooms. This facility also houses our administrative offices, and is one of the most welcoming funeral homes in the Mohawk Valley. In July of 2004, the Enea, Applegate, and Day families came together to form a funeral home service that would jointly operate four funeral homes in the valley. The sum of Don Applegate, John Day and the Enea Family staff working together, meant significant opportunities for us to support every family's needs. The Applegate & Day Funeral Home and the Graves-Applegate-Day Funeral Home have became completely independent and family-owned and are no longer affiliated with Stewart Enterprises Inc. Families will now be able to request the funeral director they prefer to arrange and direct their loved one's services. The Applegate Funeral Home was founded in 1919 by Don's grandfather and grandmother, Clayton and Marjorie Applegate. In September of 2016, Marty Ciaccia, a native of Frankfort and long-time licensed funeral director with the Enea firms, officially became a partner in the organization, and the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home was born. Our funeral directors and staff are proud of their commitment to the community they serve, and are dedicated, whole-heartedly, to creating an environment that makes our families feel safe and comfortable. They take pride in being Mohawk Valley residents and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. You can learn more about each of our funeral directors in the staff section of our website by clicking our staff bios.

09/23/2025

Cythia Diane Lowe

Cynthia Diane Lowe (Coyne), age 70, passed away on August 30, 2025, in Frankfort New York.

She was born August 4, 1955, in Utica, New York. Cynthia was the daughter of Emilie Davis and Charles Wallace Coyne. She grew up in the Mohawk Valley and graduated from Whitesboro High School before continuing her education at MVCC where she obtained her associates degree.

She worked in the billing department at Marion Medical at St. Elizabeth's Hospital. Cynthia cherished time spent with her family, friends, church community, and her beloved pets.

Cynthia was predeceased by her parents Emilie Davis Coyne and Charles Wallace Coyne. Cynthia is survived by her husband David Lowe, her sister Deborah and husband Robert DuPrau, her niece Elizabeth and husband Charles Pulluaim, and her nephew Robert and wife Abigail DuPrau.

A memorial service for Cynthia will be held on September 27, 2025, at 10:00am at the Mohawk Reformed Church, 20 South Otsego Street, Mohawk N.Y.

This obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

View Cythia Diane Lowe's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/22/2025

James Patrick Thomas

HERKIMER - James (“Jimmy”) Patrick Thomas, age 79, of Bath New York, passed away on Wednesday, September 17th, 2025.

Jimmy was predeceased by his parents, Anna K. Thomas and James F. Thomas; his sisters, Mary Ann Paterson and Margaret Kearns: and his brother, Thomas E. Thomas.

Jimmy is survived by his sister, Kathleen, and generations of loving cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Jimmy graduated from Mohawk High School in 1964. He then served in the United States Army from February 6, 1967, to May 27, 1969, receiving an Honorable Discharge. Jimmy lived in Canandaigua, NY; Penn Yan, NY; and finally, Bath, NY all under the care of the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

The family of Jimmy want to extend our sincere gratitude for the commitment and loving care shown by the nurses, doctors, pastoral staff, social worker, pharmacist, nutritionist, physical therapist and all of the people who work at the Bath VA Medical Center.

All those who knew Jimmy are invited to the Enea Family Funeral Home, located at 4309 Acme Rd in Ilion, NY for calling hours from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM on Friday morning, September 26th, 2025.

Services for Jimmy will be held Friday morning, September 26th, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., at the Blessed Sacrament Church, in Mohawk. A procession to the Mohawk Cemetery will follow, where James will be laid to rest next to his mother, father and brother, with military honors.

His obituary may be viewed by visiting www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors. (315) 894-8000.

View James Patrick Thomas's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/19/2025

Joy M. Zientara

Joy M. Zientara, of Galinsky apartments, Herkimer passed away at the Little Falls Hospital on September 13th, 2025, at the age of 87 with her daughter by her side.

Joy was born to Ernest and Marion Silvernail of Little Falls, on May 18, 1938. As a young homemaker, Joy was active in her children's lives by participating in PTA, Cub Scouts and Brownies. Joy was witty and a fun, loving person who looked forward to Sunday breakfast with her son and monthly breakfast adventures with her sisters. She enjoyed trips to Maine with her daughter and grandson, bus trips, garage sales, camping and the casino. She was a very caring person who enjoyed being a caretaker for the elderly privately, and in nursing homes.

Joy was preceded in death by her husband Edward Zientara and her longtime companion Sy Phetda, her sister Joan Agati, her daughter Sandra Zientara and grandson Brandon Zientara.

She is survived by her sons,

Scott Zientara (Boonville, NY) , James Zientara (Eustis, FL),a daughter Judith Zientara (Alachua,FL),As well as her grandchildren; Joshua Goldner (Alachua, FL), Kristus Zientara (Annapolis, MD) and Heather Zientara (Eustis, FL) and her sisters, Carol Haberek (Ilion, NY) and Alice Mosher (Little Falls, NY).

Joy’s family would like to thank Joan Murphy and the Galinsky Apartments office staff. They also would like to thank the Little Falls Hospital Nurses and staff for their compassion and care.

Family and friends are invited to a graveside service for Joy on Wednesday September 24th, commencing at 10 AM at the Church Street Cemetery in Little Falls, NY officiated by Deacon James Bower.

This obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

View Joy M. Zientara's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/19/2025

Sue C. Campagna

HERKIMER - Mrs. Sue Campagna, age 80, and a resident of Herkimer, New York, passed peacefully on Wednesday, September 17th, after a long illness.

Born November 5, 1944, Sue was the daughter of Walter and Wanda (Matthews) Snyder. She was raised on a dairy farm in the Town of Norway. Sue was a graduate of West Canada Valley Central School. She continued her education at SUNY Cortland, SUNY College of Technology of Utica, and Utica College of Syracuse University. Her proudest accomplishment was receiving her Registered Professional Nurse diploma from Faxton Hospital School of Nursing.

On June 18, 1966, Sue married the love of her life, Eugene “Gino” Campagna at St. Anthony’s Church in Herkimer. Together they shared in a loving and devoted union of over fifty-four years. The two were inseparable, Sue doted on Gino tirelessly.

In her professional career, Sue started as a staff nurse at Faxton Hospital transitioning to an Instructor with the Utica public school system. Following that she was Coordinator of In-Service Education at Herkimer Memorial Hospital. Sue then moved to the Director of Patient Services of Herkimer County Public Health, eventually becoming the first ever Director of Herkimer County Public Health.

One of Sue’s proudest professional accomplishments was founding the Herkimer County Hospice Program. Sue volunteered her time as Administrator for the Hospice program. The program was ultimately named The Sue Campagna Hospice of Herkimer County. In support of Hospice, Sue coordinated the annual Butterfly Release Celebration with Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. If you were fortunate enough to witness one of these events they were beautiful to behold and her dedication and attention to detail was clearly evident.

Sue received numerous awards and honors throughout her years of service. Some of the awards included: Citation for Leadership in Public Health; Who’s Who in Government Services; Nurse of Distinction Recognition by New York State Legislature; Who’s Who in American Nursing; American Red Cross Great Hero Award; and she was a recipient of Dove Award for work in the palliative care field. Along with these awards Sue was also appointed to multiple Boards in the health care field.

Although she pursued excellence in her professional career, Sue was just as dedicated to her family. She was always at the ready to help her siblings and numerous nieces and nephews, with special mention of two grandnieces, Dakota and Myka, whom she spoiled and loved as if they were her own grandchildren.

Sue was famously known for her Christmas cookie trays which she shared lovingly with friends and family, often figuring out your favorite. Unsurprisingly, you always had plenty of your particular favorite. Thanksgiving family dinners were also a highlight of her and Gino’s family traditions. It was sure to include their “Thanksgiving Soup”, homemade stuffing and quite possibly the largest turkey in the state.

Sue also made sure everyone felt special on birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and any special accomplishment they achieved by sending cards with a heartfelt message of love. (The greeting card companies miss her).

Sue leaves behind her sister Linda Helmer, two brothers Allen (Judy) Snyder and Kurt (Kathy) Snyder, and brother-in-law Cliff Crossett, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Sue was predeceased by her husband, her parents, two sisters Judy Crossett and infant Ann, and her brother-in-law Leon Helmer.

A sincere thank you is extended to the entire staff of Brookdale Memory Care Facility in Clinton, NY for providing exceptional care and compassion to Sue for the past 2 years.

A very special thank you to Sue’s nieces Kelley Crossett and Amy Shepherd for following Sue’s example and caring for her with dignity, respect and endless love the past several years.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend funeral home calling hours from 11:30am-12:30pm on Monday, September 22nd. A celebration of life funeral service will follow at 12:30pn at the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Rd, Ilion, NY 13357. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer, NY.

In lieu of flowers please consider memorial contributions to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd, New Hartford, NY 13413 or Alzheimer’s Association, Central New York Chapter, 5015 Campuswood Dr, Suite 102, East Syracuse, NY 13057.

This obituary will appear on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

View Sue C. Campagna's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/17/2025

Robin Ann Ruggieri

Robin Ann Ruggieri, 70, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, at the Presbyterian Residential Community in New Hartford, NY. Born in Cranston, RI to the late Anthony and Assunta (Sue) Ruggieri, Robin was the second eldest of nine siblings. She later moved with her family to Poughkeepsie, NY, where she spent most of her life. Robin was a student of ballet at the Rutherford Ballet School and performed recitals regularly in the community alongside her sisters, Adrienne and Linda, as pianists. She graduated as valedictorian from St. Anne's Institute in Albany NY.

After graduating, she returned to Poughkeepsie where she put down roots and became a loving mother, wife and a caretaker for adults with disabilities. Her compassion and deep understanding that those with disabilities deserve dignity and care brought success in her line of work, leading her to a supervisory role at Dutchess ARC where she had a positive impact on the lives of many.

Robin was predeceased by her son, Joel Mark Kaiser, her nieces, Ashley and Vanessa Burger, and her nephew Nicholas Wennersten. She is also predeceased by Alexander Scott, to whom she was a House Parent to for many years.

Robin is survived by her daughter, Jenean Jessen of Ilion, NY, and granddaughter, Taryn (Colin) Jessen-Jewett of Prospect NY, Adrienne Ruggieri-Hoffer of Callicoon, NY, Linda Burdick of Garfield, NJ, Mark (Debbie) Ruggieri of Poughkeepsie, NY, Sally Kuhl of Mohawk, NY, Paul (Debbie) Ruggieri of Milton, NY, Lucille (Jeff) Lang of Pine Bush, NY, Katrina (Nels) Wennersten of Poughkeepsie, NY and Larissa (George) Burger of Poughkeepsie, NY, and too many nieces and nephews to name.

It is an understatement to say that Robin was loved immensely by her big, boisterous family. She will be remembered for her generous love, her wit, and always being the auntie with an extra cigarette and a listening ear. We will especially not forget how she made others laugh so hard with her sharp tongue to cut through nonsense.

Robin leaves a legacy of art and music which were so much a part of her life. She was beautiful and talented and loved by all her knew her.

A small graveside service will take place on Thursday, September 18 at 10 a.m. under the guidance of the Enea Funeral Home in Ilion, NY and burial will be at Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion.

A memorial will be planned for Spring of 2026.

Her daughter Jenean would like to especially thank her son in law Colin Jessen-Jewett for his loving and compassionate care to Nona Robin for many months prior to her transition to Assisted Living. Her daughter Taryn for her gentle strength and support during this emotional journey with Nona. Auntie Katrina for being a Warrior Sister/Auntie Mama, Her Auntie Mama Larissa for always being there to listen and give encouragement. Her cousin Bryanne for being a present earth angel at the passing of her brother Joel and Mama Robin.

In addition, many thanks to Robin's caregivers and staff over the past two years at the ESSHI program (The Meadows Senior Living) and Presbyterian Residential Community, and the love and support of too many to be named on this journey.

Robin and her family are under the care of the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors, 4309 Acme Rd. Ilion, NY 13357. 315-894-8000

View Robin Ann Ruggieri's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/16/2025

Kim Metzler

Kim Metzler, age 70, of Fort Plain, NY peacefully passed on September 9, 2025, at the Little Falls Hospital.

He was born on September 7, 1955, in Troy, NY to Hariet and Matthew Metzler. Kim grew up in East Nassau. He went to high school in New Lebanon and attended college in Cobleskill. He wore many hats and worked as a nurse, bartender and store manager throughout his working life.

Kim loved his animals, gardening and cooking. His days would be filled by tending to his goats, working in his bountiful gardens and creating delicious meals from scratch. Kim was a master at creating the most amazing meals over the wood stove. He will be remembered for his humor, his culinary skills and his love of his animals and plants.

Kim is survived by his partner Michael Falconio who shared his love of animals and gardens. His two children, Jessica Sinclair of Bronx, NY and Jason Metzler, Ocala, FL. As well as two grandchildren Emily Metzler and Autumn Sinclair. He is also survived by his father Matthew Metzler, sister Diane Arduini, and brothers Blake and Kirk Metzler. He was preceded in death by his mother Harriet Metzler.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate funeral directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com .

View Kim Metzler's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/15/2025

Isabelle D. Smaldone

In the early morning hours of September 9, 2025, Isabelle (Liz) Smaldone went home to be with the Lord. She was 78 years young. Born March 8, 1947, minutes before her twin sister, Alberta. She grew up the eldest of three siblings. She graduated from Poland Central School. She worked various jobs throughout her career. Her most recent employer was Birnie Bus as a bus monitor. She also worked early in her career at Mohawk Data Services (MDS) and at the Poland ICF House.

Liz had many hobbies and interests. Her favorite times were spent with her sister, her grandchildren, and her family. She loved listening to country music and would often tell the story of when she met Faron Young and he took a shine to her. Although, she got to see Conway Twitty several times in concert, when he passed, her dream of becoming “Lizzy Twitty” was shattered. Liz was known far and wide for her delicious food and baked goods, especially her scrumptious coffee cake. Her door was always open to enjoy a cup of coffee and conversation.

She was just 22 years shy of making one of her goals in her life, to be featured on the Smucker’s Jar. You almost made it Mom!

She is survived by her children, Linda (Edward) Bracken, William (Cassie) Eaton, Robbie (Allison) Smaldone, her grandchildren (Cyan Eaton, Bryan Eaton, Benjamin Smaldone, Tatum Smaldone, Rowan Smaldone, Arden Smaldone, Brandon Lane, and Sarah Neff), her sisters Alberta Davy (her favorite twin), Marion (Bill) Massey, Midge (Claude) Davis, and Eadie Dennison, her brothers-in-law, Richard Havens and Jim Eaton and a son in law, David George. She leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Also, her former husband, Roger Dauback of Newport, NY.

She was predeceased by her husband, Robert Smaldone, her children’s father, Raymond Eaton. Her baby sister, Sandra Havens, grandparents Roy & Isabelle Davy, her father Albert Davy and mother Eva Barringer, her sister Peggy (John) Gardener, stepdaughter, Tanya George, as well as several aunt and uncles.

There will be a Celebration of Life on October 25, 2025, from 11am until 2pm at the Ilion Frankfort VFW, 4274 Acme Rd, Frankfort, NY. Please come join us in remembering and honoring Liz.

LIz and her family are under the care of the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors, 4309 Acme Rd. Ilion, NY 13357. 315-894-8000

View Isabelle D. Smaldone's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/12/2025

Beverly Kelly Ames

Beverly Kelly Ames, 84, of Ilion, NY, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, at Upstate Medical University Hospital in Syracuse, NY after a brief illness, and went to be with our Lord and Savior.

Born in Ilion, NY, on May 11, 1941, to Robert Paul Kelly and Helen Marhaver Kelly, she grew up in the Village of Ilion, located in the Mohawk Valley. She was an alumni of Annunciation School, and a graduate of Ilion High School. On July 8, 1961, she married her beloved husband of sixty-four years, Walter “Skip” Ames. Prior to working at Oneida National Bank in Ilion, NY, Beverly attended St. Elizabeth College of Nursing in Utica, NY. Because she desired to be ever-present in her children’s lives, she worked in the Ilion School District cafeterias, and only later retired to take care of her mother, Helen.

A devout Catholic, Beverly was a member of Annunciation Church in Ilion, NY, and became a Youth Coordinator, along with her husband Skip, for the Ilion CYO at Annunciation Church. She enjoyed doing arts and crafts, painting ceramics, and was a member of the Ladies Home Bureau, in Ilion. She was an originator of the Lamp Lighters for the Ilion Volunteer Fire Department. She truly enjoyed watching Syracuse basketball games. An avid bird watcher, she especially loved cardinals, Baltimore orioles, and hummingbirds. She also loved plants and gardening, snowmen, and sunflowers, but truly enjoyed decorating for the holidays (especially Christmas). For thirty-one years, Beverly delighted in spending her summers in the Thousand Islands, at Kring Point, NY on the St. Lawrence River, with her husband, family, and friends.

Beverly was pre-deceased by her parents, Robert Paul Kelly and Helen Marhaver Kelly; her grandparents, Agnes Gilligan Marhaver and Arleigh Marhaver; and her in-laws, Walter Daniel Ames, Sr. and Iola Zoller Ames.

She was pre-deceased by her extended family on the Kelly side: her aunt, Marie C. Kelly, three uncles and their late wives, Lewis Kelly (Anna), James Kelly (Elizabeth), and Larry Kelly (Shirley), and a cousin, Patrick Kelly.

She was pre-deceased by her extended family on the Marhaver side: her uncle and his late wife, Edward “Ned” Arleigh Marhaver (Katie), her nephew, Carl Edward Marhaver, and a nephew-in-law, David A. Smith.

She was pre-deceased by her extended family on the Ames side: her brother-in-law, and late sister-in-law, Ferd M. Ames (Winiferd "Winnie"), ner niece-in-law and late nephew-in-law, Floy Baldwin (Rick), her sister-in-law and late brother-in-law, Barbara Ames Szczesniak (Chet), her two brothers-in-law, Donald Ames, and Robert Richards, and her niece-in-law, Elizabeth Richards.

She is survived by her husband, Walter Daniel “Skip” Ames; her three children, Lisa Marie (Ames) Miller (Shannon), Mark Daniel Ames, and Noel K. Ames (Lindsay); her three grandchildren, Zachary Christian Ames (Elizabeth), Craig Daniel Miller, and Morgan Noelle Ames; and two great-grandchildren, Adrian Walter Ames, and Nicholas William Ames.

She is survived by her extended family on the Kelly side: her five cousins, Mary Wolf, Nancy Bronson (Bill), Bill Kelly (Sandy), Jim Kelly (Deb), Jack Kelly (Marie), and all their children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her extended family on the Marhaver side: her four cousins, Joanne Marhaver Smith, Brian Marhaver, David Marhaver (Lynne), Robert Marhaver (Tami), and all their children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her extended family on the Ames side: her three sisters-in-law, Sandy Richards, Mary LaPoint (Richard) and Gloria Ames; her two nieces-in-law, Gwen Collis (Gary) and Dona Carpenter (Donald), and all their children and grandchildren.

She is also survived by Father Terence Healy, who has been a life-long, family friend.

Family was very important to Beverly, and she cherished her relatives and friends.

A full funeral mass will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 10:30am, at Annunciation Church, 50 West Street, Ilion, NY 13357. There will be no calling hours. Interment immediately following mass at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Elizabeth Street, in Frankfort, NY 13340.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ilion Fire Department, 1 Central Avenue, Ilion, NY 13357 or to the Alexandria Bay Fire Department, 110 Walton Street, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607.

A special thank you to the doctors, nurses, and staff on 9E and 10G of Upstate Medical University Hospital in Syracuse, NY, the crew of LifeNet Air Ambulance, and the doctors, nurses and staff at River Hospital in Alexandria Bay, NY for their outstanding expertise, dedication, care and comfort provided to Beverly. An additional special thanks to the Alexandria Bay Village Fire Department, in Alexandria Bay, NY, and the Ilion Fire Department, in Ilion, NY for their tremendous assistance recently, and over the past several years.

Beverly and her family are under the care of the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors, 4309 Acme Rd. Ilion, NY 13357. 315-894-8000

View Beverly K. Ames's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/12/2025

John R. Burns

John R. Burns, age 67, a lifelong Frankfort resident, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, September 10, 2025, at the Abraham House in Rome. Throughout his passing and illness, he had the constant love and support of his family and friends by his side.

Born on October 6, 1957, John is the son of Carmen (Rodriguez) Burns and the late John R. Burns, Sr. He was raised and educated in Frankfort, graduating with the FSCS Class of 1975.

At one time, John shared in a marriage with the former Debbie Tripple, and together they were blessed with their three children. John was a hardworking man and a butcher by trade, who would proudly proclaim to be a gifted sausage maker!

He had an amazing sense of humor and a one-of-a-kind personality and when in his presence, you couldn’t help but laugh along with him. In his free time, he enjoyed playing cards, four wheeling, snowmobiling and cheering on the Green Bay Packers. He also had a passion for hunting and looked forward to endless hours spent in the woods, surrounded by the still and quiet of nature.

John was always there for his children and grandchildren throughout the years. He will forever live on in their hearts.

He is survived by his children, Dina and Stanley “Bucky” Fernalld of Utica, John Burns and Samantha Vivirito of Frankfort and Katie and Eric Rodriguez of Frankfort; his grandchildren, Kadence Fernalld, Carter Knapp, Makenly Fernalld, Macy Burns and Paisley Rodriguez; his mother, Carmen; his sisters, Rosemary, Linda, Debi and Cheryl; along with several nieces, nephews and extended family members.

He also leaves behind a host of friends through the years, with special mention of the Bulinski’s and Joe Zipko for their unwavering support throughout this past year, as John’s health declined.

In keeping with John’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to the Abraham House, 417 North Washington Street, Rome, NY 13440.

The Burns family has entrusted cremation arrangements to the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000, Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

View John R. Burns's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/11/2025

Gene M. Johnson

Gene M. Johnson

MOHAWK – Gene M. Johnson, age 85, of Orchard St., Mohawk, passed away peacefully, on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, at Valley Health Services, Herkimer, with his wife Betty by his side.

He was born on May 25, 1940, in Horican NY, the son of Mark and Florence (Barlow) Johnson, and attended Adirondack Brant Lake School, Potterville, NY. Gene was a Veteran, serving in the U.S. Army. He was married to Betty Fletcher, on Sept. 30, 1978, in Herkimer. Gene was a Fire Control Assembler, at Re*****on Arms Co., Ilion, for over 35 years, retiring in 2002. He was a member of the Mohawk Reformed Church.

Surviving family members include his loving wife, Betty; his 2 grandchildren, Thomas Johnson and Allison Johnson; his 6 great-grandchildren; his 2 sisters, Dawn Brown and Diane Youmes and her husband, Carl; his brother, Gary Johnson; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, including Bill and Nancy Anton, Doreen Baldock, Joanne and Fred Rando, Nancy Geer, and Melissa and Brenda, at Valley Health Services, and Eugene and Eileen Kipper.

He was predeceased by his daughters, Jennifer Lynn Johnson and Amy Marie Anderson; his sister, Donna Herd; his 3 brothers, Lester, Bob and Nelson Johnson; his parents; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Ben and Clydia Fletcher.

Calling hours are on Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon, at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home’s larger facility, at 4309 Acme Rd., between Ilion and Frankfort. Funeral Services will be held at 12 noon, Sept. 15, 2025, at the funeral home, with Pastor Brian Engell officiating. Burial will be at Mohawk Cemetery, Columbia St., Mohawk.

Anyone wishing to share a memory of Gene, or add to his online memorial, may go to www.applegateandday.com on the Internet.

Betty Johnson wishes to thank the staff at Valley Health Services for their excellent care and compassion during his stay there.

In lieu of flowers, as a token of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital New England, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104 (201-555-0123). Envelopes will also be available at the funeral home.

Gene’s service arrangements were prearranged and entrusted to his Family Funeral Director and friend, Don Applegate, at Applegate, Ciaccia and Enea Funeral Directors, of Ilion (315-895-7722).

View Gene M. Johnson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/10/2025

Janet M. DiMartin

FRANKFORT – Mrs. Janet M. DiMartin, age 78, of Frankfort, New York, passed away surrounded by her devoted family in the peace and comfort of her home on September 5th, 2025.

She was born on December 3rd, 1946, in Ilion, New York, a daughter of the late Carl J. and Mary (Geragi) Sgroi. She attended Frankfort-Schuyler Schools. She was married to Joseph S. DiMartin on October 29th, 1966, at St. Mary’s Church in Frankfort. She worked with right of way mapping with NYS Department of Transportation at the State office building in Utica.

Surviving is her beloved family, her husband of nearly 60 years, Joseph, her children, Joey DiMartin and his fiancé Brett, and Mary Lynn Critelli and her husband Craig, and her grandchildren, Trinity Panko and her husband, Joshua, and Luke Critelli, as well as her K-9 companion, JoJo and several cousins. Her parents and other family members preceded her in death.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025, at 10:00 AM at The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road in Ilion, and at 10:30 AM at Our lady Queen of Apostles Church, South Frankfort Street in Frankfort, NY where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will then take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Frankfort.

Family and friends are invited to one hour of visitation at the funeral home on Tuesday morning, prior to the services from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM and attend all services that follow.

The family extends sincere gratitude to Hospice & Palliative care nurses, doctors and staff.

This obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

View Janet DiMartin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/09/2025

Frank J. LaPuma

Frank J. LaPuma, age 93, beloved patriarch of the LaPuma family, passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon, September 7, 2025, surrounded by the love and support of his family.

Born in Frankfort on June 28, 1932, Frank was the only son of the late Paul and Mary (Dannacchi) LaPuma. His childhood years were spent in Frankfort where he grew up and graduated from Frankfort schools. Subsequently, he went on to earn his associate’s degree before receiving the calling to enlist with the United States Army. He would go on to proudly serve his country overseas with the 2nd Infantry Division during the Korean War, being honorably discharged in 1954.

After the war, Frank went on to continue his education, obtaining a Bachelor of Science from Utica College in 1956 and a Master of Education from Oneonta State in 1961. His career as an educator would span thirty-three years teaching sixth grade for the Herkimer Central School District.

He would retire in 1991, only to continue tutoring for thirty years, helping over 100 students achieve passing grades in high school math, earth science and on the SATs. His brilliant mind carried with him into his nineties, and he was even aiding students in Regents exams this past summer. He was truly an intelligent and gifted man who shared his talents with the generations that followed. He would earn the Hannaford Humanitarian Award and the Herkimer County Humanitarian Award for his achievements.

On August 22, 1959, Frank was married to the former Marie Cattat in St. Mary’s Church in Frankfort and together they shared a love that spanned over sixty-six years. Their dedication, support and love for one another was truly an inspiration to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Frank was an athlete from an early age and throughout his college years, played basketball for Utica College at the junior varsity and varsity levels; even holding a record for scoring 13 foul shots, and a total of 23 points, against Oswego State in a junior varsity game in the 1950s.

As an adult, he enjoyed bowling and for many years participated in the Frankfort Community League. One of his best games was a league sanctioned 3-game series of which he scored a 722 (256, 256, 210).

Throughout his life, Frank held an irrefutable love for the New York Yankees and he followed them meticulously up until his very last days. He kept an immaculate journal of their downfalls and successes and was their unofficial (and unpaid!) statistician and bookkeeper. It was a hobby that truly helped to keep his mind sharp.

Another love for Frank throughout his life was that of music. He played in the Frankfort Veterans Band as well as for La Banda Rosa over a span of 65 years as a percussionist. He was also the Personnel Director and Payroll Supervisor for those organizations for some of that tenure.

Frank’s Catholic faith was very important to him from the time he was young, serving as an altar boy all through high school. He helped to start the Lector Program at the former St. Mary’s Church, where he also served as an Usher, Eucharistic Minister and as a member of the Parish Council for many years. He codirected the Bishop’s Appeal back in the day when street canvasing was being utilized. He was a faithful and steadfast attendee of Sunday Mass and believed in the power of prayer.

Amongst all of Frank’s accolades and achievements, perhaps the proudest moments in his life came from his roles as father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was selfless, caring and giving of himself in every way for the ones he loved, acting as a father figure to so many beyond just his own children. He instilled old-fashioned values and stressed the importance of tradition in his family. His legacy will live on in those he leaves behind.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marie; his children, Lori Chapman of Utica, Paul and Amy LaPuma of Little Falls, Frank and Natalie LaPuma of Ilion and Mary Catherine LaPuma of Pasadena, Maryland; his grandchildren, Sierra Wilson, David and Jena Ashley, Joel LaPuma, Eric and Jennifer Ashley, Jace LaPuma, Desiree Madore, Dominique Madore, Frank C. LaPuma and Olivia LaPuma; his great-grandchildren, Landon, Azure, Lia, Hayden, Luca, Elliana, Henry and Cecelia; and his sister, Ann McKevitt of Utica; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Mary; his parents-in-law, Frank and Catherine Cattat; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Martha and Eugene Cobb, Grace LaPuma, Connie LaPuma, Frances and Donald Varin and Peter McKevitt; and his in-laws, Carol and Leo Barr and George Cattat.

A special thank you is extended to Bassett Healthcare Network’s Little Falls Hospital, specifically the staffs of the ER and 3-East, for the compassion and care shown to Frank and his family throughout the final part of his life’s journey.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend visitation for Frank on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 from 4:00PM – 7:00PM at the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000. Prayers will be offered by Pastor Tim Parisi at 7:00PM to conclude the evening.

Frank’s funeral service will commence on Thursday morning, September 11, 2025 at 9:30AM at the funeral home and at 10:30AM at Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church in Frankfort, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Paul Catena, Pastor. Procession will follow to Mt. Olivet Cemetery where Frank’s earthly remains will be laid to rest and military honors conferred.

For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to the Frank J. Lapuma Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o Frankfort-Schuyler High School, 605 Palmer Street, Frankfort, NY 13340. This fund will be established to annually honor a high school student pursuing an advanced degree in education.

The LaPuma family has entrusted the care of their beloved husband and father to the Enea, Ciaccia and Applegate funeral directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

View Frank J. LaPuma's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Address

Business Office, 4309 Acme Road
Ilion, NY
13340

Website

http://eneafuneralhomes.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Enea Family Funeral Home posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Want your practice to be the top-listed Clinic in Ilion?

Enea Family Funeral Home

09/23/2025

09/22/2025

09/19/2025

09/19/2025

09/17/2025

09/16/2025

09/15/2025

09/12/2025

09/12/2025

09/11/2025

09/10/2025

09/09/2025

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category