Patsy "Pat" Brillante

Mr. Patsy (Pat) Brillante age 98, of Utica passed away on April 7, 2020.

Patsy was born in Utica, on January 27, 1922 the son of the late Edward and Antonia Paliatto Brillante. A lifelong Utican, he was a graduate of TR Proctor High School, and he later earned an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering from MVCC.

Patsy proudly served his country in the United States Army Air Force (USAAF) during World War II. As a member of the 782nd Bomb Squad, he was a B-24 Tail Gunner in the 465th Bomb Group. He flew 51 combat missions in the North African/Mediterranean Theater of Operations. Patsy was awarded many citations and medals during his military service including the Distinguished Flying Cross in July of 1944  "...for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy." On September 27, 1947 he was married to Katherine Rizzo in St. Anthony of Padua Church, a blessed union of 70 years.

Patsy worked in the engineering and design departments of General Electric. He later joined Sperry Rand Co. /UNIVAC Corp and was employed there until his retirement. He was a life-long gardener who also enjoyed golf, fishing and hunting.

Surviving are one daughter and son-in-law Mary Annette and Guy R. Danella of New Hartford; two sons and daughters-in-law Edward and Debra Brillante of Syracuse and Anthony and Mary Ann Brillante of Rome; his cherished grandchildren Terra and Michael McDermott, Elissa West and Joseph Cioffi, John Danella, Edward and Jaimie Brillante, James Brillante and Samantha Durkin, Michael Brillante, Christopher and Jennifer Beach Brillante, Amanda and Jose Balesca; ten beloved great grandchildren; his sister-in-law Flora Scialdo and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Katherine, his sister Rose Brillante and his sister and brother-in-law Mary and Joseph DiVaccaro.

Private funeral services with interment in St. Agnes Cemetery with Military Honors will be held at the convenience of the family.

In memory of Patsy, please consider a contribution to your favorite charity.