Obituary of Salvatore J. Persico

RAVENA – Salvatore J. “Sam” Persico, 85, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, February 24, 2013 at the Teresian House. He was born in Albany on June 22, 1927, son of the late Salvatore and Assunta Molella Persico. Sam was a lifelong resident of the Ravena-Coeymans area. He was a Navy veteran of World War II. Following service, he worked for the New York Central Railroad, and worked for his brother Guy at Persico Oil Company. Sam then worked for over 20 years at the former Atlantic Cement Company, now Lafarge, retiring at age 62. He also started Persico Service Station with his brother Dan and, following retirement from the cement company, returned to work part-time at Persico Oil. Sam started the Hot Pepper Club, which became Ravena Fish & Game Club. He also was a member of the RC Sportsmen’s Club, and a life member of Mother McAuley Council 3424 Knights of Columbus. Sam enjoyed playing golf and keeping busy around the house. For nine of his last 11 years, he dedicated himself to caring for his beloved wife during her illness. This was important work for Sam, and he did it well. Sam is survived by his children, Salvatore J. Persico (Bonnie), Cindy Tracey Granato, and Rocco P. Persico (Andrea); 7 grandchildren, Josephine O’Connor (Tom), Dr. Anthony J. Tracey (GiGi), Salvatore B. Persico (Misha), Lena M., Vanessa N., Amelia L. and Victoria M. Persico, and 2 great-grandsons, Thomas Salvatore and Theodore Anthony O’Connor; many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, Sam was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Louise V. Palmer Persico on May 2, 2011; and his siblings, Guy Persico, Mary Dardani, Adella Frangella, Gene Persico, Edith Fisk and Daniel Persico. Calling hours will be Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Pero Memorial Funeral Home, 9 Main Street, Ravena. The funeral will be Friday at 9 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, followed by entombment in St. Patrick’s Mausoleum, Coeymans. Memorial donations to “The Pantry at St. Patrick’s”, 21 Main Street, Ravena, NY 12143 will be appreciated. Arrangements by A.J. Cunningham Funeral Homes, Inc., Greenville. Light a candle at ajcunninghamfh.com.