Mrs. Caterina Ventimiglia

UTICA – Mrs. Caterina (Buttitta) Ventimiglia, age 98, passed away on Sunday, November 9, 2025, in the comfort and dignity of her niece Josephine's home. She was lovingly cared for and surrounded by her devoted family until her very last moment – they take comfort in knowing that Caterina is now reunited with her beloved husband, Peter, and her precious sisters.
Born in Bagheria, Sicily, on June 10, 1927, Caterina was the second eldest of four daughters of the late Giuseppe and Concetta (Gagliano) Buttitta. She spent her childhood in Italy and later attended tailoring school, where she learned the skills that would serve her well throughout her life.
In June of 1954, Caterina was united in Holy Matrimony with Peter Ventimiglia, beginning a marriage grounded in love, faith, and commitment. In 1963, they immigrated to the United States, settling in the Utica area, which became their cherished home. Together, they shared more than 35 wonderful years prior to Peter's passing on April 17, 1990.
Expounding on her tailoring skills, Caterina worked as a dedicated and hardworking supervisor at the Joseph & Feiss Company, a position from which she eventually retired. During her many years there, she earned the respect of her colleagues and formed lasting friendships that she cherished throughout her life.
Caterina was a steadfast example of perseverance and kindness. Her greatest joy came from being surrounded by her family, especially her beloved nieces and nephews, to whom she was not only an aunt but truly a second mother. She never missed a family gathering, holiday, or special occasion, and took great pride in celebrating life's moments with those she loved most. As the family grew, her affection extended wholeheartedly to her great-nieces and great-nephews - "her babies" - whom she adored watching grow. She especially delighted in venturing on shopping trips with them, always on the lookout for the best deals.
In her quieter moments, Caterina found peace tending to her flowers, particularly her cherished geraniums. She also enjoyed sewing and had a keen eye for fashion, taking pride in presenting herself with grace and elegance.
A lifelong devout Catholic, Caterina loved the Lord and spoke with Him daily in her prayers, particularly before every meal. She was deeply grateful for her blessings, often expressing her heartfelt thanks aloud with her signature phrase, "Thank God."
Caterina is survived by her beloved nieces and nephews, Rosario and Dorotea Graziano, Guiseppe and Piera Graziano; Rosemary Spano and her husband Aaron Stern; Josephine and Robert Mazzorana, and Anthony and Donna Caltagirone. She is also survived by her great-nieces and great-nephews, Dan Mazzorana, Claudia and Michael Carcone; Zachary Caltagirone, Matthew Caltagirone, Katelyn and Dan Cleary; Eric Stern, Margareta Stern; and many treasured great-nieces and great-nephews in Italy, Canada, and California. Her joy extended to her great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, Julia, and Benedetto Carcone; and Anthony Cleary. She also leaves to cherish her memory many beloved family members in Italy, whom she adored; and her dear friend, Gina Lombardo.
She fondly remembered her siblings and their spouses who preceded her, Domenica and Luigi Graziano, Agata and Diego Caltagirone, and Maria "Nina" and Louis "Luigi" Spano. She was additionally predeceased by her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Frank and Maria Ventimiglia; in-laws, Anna Ventimiglia, Rosario Ventimiglia, Francesco Ventimiglia, Concetta Ventimiglia, and Giovanna and Calogero Leone; and her nephew, Frank Leone.
The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the nurses of Acacia Home Care, as well as to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. for their dedicated care, compassion, and support during Caterina's final days.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 10:00-11:00 a.m., at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Caterina's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Those unable to attend may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84694567963. Memorial contributions in Caterina's honor may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., online at https://hospicecareinc.org/donate-online/; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum at Calvary Cemetery.