Gerald A. "Jerry" Trotta, II 1941 - 2018
UTICA - Mr. Gerald A. "Jerry" Trotta, II, age 77, joined his son in heaven on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. His passing occurred at the Presbyterian Home for Central NY with his devoted family in his heart.
Born in Utica on May 21, 1941, Gerald was the son of the late Gerald "Jerry", Sr. and Louise (DiJoseph) Trotta. He attended Utica Catholic Academy and went on to enlist in the United States Air Force. A proud veteran, he honorably served his country stateside from 1958-1964 where he had the honor of being an elite guard for various Presidents. His tour of duty later took him to Japan where he achieved a 4th degree Black Belt in Karate. He also received college credit for his studies while in military service. Jerry was blessed when he married the former Bonnie Love. They blended their former lives, and raised a family. Their children loved and respected him to this day.
Jerry was proud to have worked for the Marriott Corporation, and was a General Manager for one of their Washington, D.C. locations. When his son was involved in a motorcycle accident, Jerry resigned to care for his son and also began to work at Sam's Club. Lastly, he ventured into business and became the owner and operator of the German Inn Restaurant in Maryland. He was a perfectionist, and maintained an impeccable restaurant which was of the utmost importance to him.
Jerry was a self-sufficient and independent man. He had a sweet eye for nice women and was confident and polite in his actions and attitude. He had a lovable and adventurous aspect to his personality, and he always saw the good side of the road. He enjoyed Black Jack at the casino and his favorite "Texas Hold'em Poker" at his sister Marie's kitchen table. He liked to try his luck at lottery tickets and had favorite numbers. He was wise and gave good advice to his kids and taught them to respect others, especially family. He lovingly kept a keen eye on his grandson, Easton. Jerry was a God-fearing man who knew his Lord and prayed to him.
As for all of us, Jerry had seasons of his life; many of them were filled with joy and contentment, but it was proven that the autumn of his life was the greatest. It was in this time that he knew the love and the care of his family, and in turn, he gave them the blessings of brotherly love. He was a humble, gentle man who appreciated the gifts of God that were presented to him.
Gerald is survived by his siblings and their spouses, Marie Luce, the beloved matriarch of the family; Rita and Joseph Nitti Jr., Vincent and Roz Trotta, and Frank and Gloria Trotta; and his daughter and son-in-law, Bridget and Ed Bonanno, and son Nathan Kerrigan. He held close to his heart the memory of his son, Gerald A. "Pepe" Trotta, III who passed away on May 31, 2013. He also leaves his grandson, Easton, age 4; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who adored him and were fortunate to spend these precious last years with him; and numerous cousins. He was favored with many wonderful friends and business acquaintances over the years. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Louis R. Luce, Sr.
The family extends sincere appreciation to Dr. Fred Talarico, Dr. Roger Breslow, and the personnel of the Presbyterian Home for Central NY/Maple Unit who were outstanding. Each shift showed respect, compassion, and affection in caring for Jerry during his stay with special mention of Cyrus with whom he had a close relationship. Special thanks to Rev. James Cesta for providing prayers, spiritual solace, and the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
The family will honor and commemorate Jerry's life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Gerald's funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday morning at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta with Military Honors conferred by the United States Air Force. Inurnment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
Online tributes at
www.EannaceFuneralHome.com.

Published by The Observer-Dispatch from Jul. 27 to Jul. 28, 2018.