Joseph M. DePalma, Sr

Mr. Joseph M. DePalma, Sr. age 73, of Utica, passed away on Wednesday October 30, 2013 at St. Luke's HospitalCenter, with his loving family by his side.

He was born in Utica on June 10, 1940 a son of the late Michael and Catherine Mazzei DePalma and was educated in New Hartford Schools. On August 13, 1966 he was married to Carol R. Scavo in St. Agnes Church, a blessed union of 47 years.

Joe was employed with the UticaCitySchool District for several years until his retirement. His true love and passion was his music. Joe was considered to be one of the best Drummer's in central New York. He was a member of the widely acclaimed "Andy and the Classics" for over 56 years, as well as the "Sounds of Magic". Joe forever cherished the friendships and musical magic of his fellow musicians, Andy Cittadino, Tim Maggiolino, Mike Carletta, his brother John DePalma and Dave Ashe. A true gentleman, he will be sadly missed, but never forgotten.

Surviving are his beloved wife, Carol; two daughters and sons-in-law, Gina and Christopher Whalen, and Deanna and Brett Alpaugh; all of New Hartford; one son and daughter-in-law, Joseph Jr. and Laura DePalma, of Utica; one brother and sister-in-law John and Gaynor DePalma of New Hartford; his beloved grandchildren Tim, Alexandra and Nicholas Whalen, Alyssa Alpaugh, and Francesca DePalma; his in-laws Josephine and Joseph Clerrico and Dick and Rita Scavo; his two nieces "goddaughter" Amy Lamberto and Michelle Cole; godson Darren Cittadino and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

His funeral will be Saturday at 12:15 pm from The Scala & Roefaro Funeral Home, Inc. 1122 Culver Ave. and at 1:00 pm in St. Joseph-St. Patrick Church, with the Rev. Anthony LaFache officiating. Private interment will be in CalvaryCemetery.

Visiting hours will be Saturday morning from 10:00 am - 12:00 noon at the funeral home.

The family wishes to thank the staff of the Oncology Unit at Faxton- St. Luke's Health Care Center for their care and compassion. Please omit flowers.

Service

Saturday, November 02 2013