Paul Joseph Maphia

Paul Joseph Maphia, age 85, of New Hartford, passed away on Friday September 5, 2014 at the Siegenthaler Center of Hospice Care Inc.

Paul Joseph Maphia was born in Utica on September 22, 1928, the son of the late Joseph and Mary Conte Maphia. He attended local schools, graduating from ThomasR.ProctorHigh School in June 1945. In September of 1948 Paul originally enlisted for a two year term with the U.S. Army. After basic training he was assigned to the 51st Signal Operation Battalion. In 1950, due to the Korean Conflict, his service time was extended for another year. When he was Honorably Discharged in September of 1951, he had completed three years of active service, was now a veteran of the Korean War, and had been promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant.

On June 21, 1952 Paul and Rose Mary Massaro were married in St. Anthony of PaduaChurch, Utica, a blessed marriage of 62 years.

In 1965, after realizing that it was important to obtain a college degree, he formally completed his education, and was awarded a Bachelor of Science Degree from Utica College of Syracuse University with a Major in Industrial Management.

His formal work experience after high school started with the New York Central Railroad, the American Optical Company, and Wittig's. His work experience continued after military service with the Rome Air Base, General Electric, Utica Packing and Plastics Company, Metropolitan Insurance and Paul Revere Insurance Co. In 1972 Paul became under the employment of the Milani Food Company as a Manufacturers Representative, and then continued with Bernard Fine Foods and The Gumpert Company, all national companies. It was in this phase of his working career that he established a number of accounts as well as lasting friendships, retiring in 1993.

Paul was a parishioner of St. Anthony of PaduaChurch, and in April of 1962 became a member of the Knights of St. John Commandery #385. As a member of the Commandery, he became very active and served as President, and Recording and Corresponding Secretary; at the Third District Commandery as Paymaster and Adjutant; at the New York Grand Commandery, as President, and at The Supreme Level as Second Vice President, and also attained the rank of Major General He was also very instrumental in officiating in The Ritualistic Ceremonies within the Commandery. He was a Lector and Eucharistic Minister. In September of 1977, Paul was inducted into the Order of the Noble Degree of The Rochester Temple.

Paul was an avid reader, especially of historic content, and enjoyed good music. He loved to play golf, especially at the Valley View Golf Club in which he was a member of the Thursday night Knights of St. John League.

He was always ready to volunteer at the annual church festivals, and for whatever fundraiser that was on the program. Community wise, Paul was an active participant in the annual American Heart Run and Walk, a member of the 500 Club for a number of years, and a member of the American Legion Post #1376 of New Hartford. He also was a member of the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program and became attached to the group known as "The Angels".

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Rose Mary; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dominick and Anne (DeCarlo) Massaro of Utica; his nephews, Richard and his wife Christine (Dawes) Massaro of New Hartford, and Thomas Massaro of Utica; his great nephews, Brian Massaro of Rochester, and Daniel Massaro of FL.; his great niece, Melissa Massaro of New Hartford; and the many cousins within the Brescia, Sanzo, Maphia, Maneen, Spina, Gabriel and Garry families, and the many dear and close friends, especially Bob Gelfuso for his constant friendship and support. Paul would like to extend his sincere thanks to all of those friends who extended the many courtesies to him on his journey through life, whether in business or social, especially to his "Army Buddies", Bob Creavey, Joe Grayton, Jim Gundy, Herk Miller, Bill Creavey, Jim Susack, and Gabe Mosso.

His funeral will held Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. from The Scala & Roefaro Funeral Home, Inc. 1122 Culver Ave. and at 10:30 a.m. in St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, with Military Honors conferred. Private interment will be in Mt.OlivetCemetery, Frankfort, NY.

Visiting hours will be Monday evening from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. The Knights of St. John Commandery #385 will assemble at 6:00 pm for ritual services.

In lieu of flowers, in your kindness, please consider a donation to The Community Foundation of Herkimer and OneidaCounties, designated for The Maphia Scholarship Fund, or to a charity of your choice. Envelopes will be provided.

Service

Tuesday, September 09 2014