Louis F. "Lou" Parrotta

Mr. Louis F. "Lou" Parrotta, age 51, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, after a brief and unexpected illness, at Wynn Hospital, with his loving sister, Marlo, by his side.

He was born in Utica, on May 8, 1974, a son of the late Louis J. and Rosalie Morosco Parrotta and was a graduate of Notre Dame School, where he was a proud member of the ROTC. Lou furthered his education and was a graduate of Utica College of Syracuse University with BA Degree and received his Master's Degree in education from the University of New England. Lou began his teaching career with the Rome Catholic Schools, where he worked for 5 years. He then was employed with the Utica City School District at TR Proctor High School, as a history teacher, for the past 23 years.

Lou was an official historian for the City of Utica. He dedicated his life to numerous community boards and organizations, including People First (MHA), where he served as vice chair and chairman from 2018 to the present, the Oneida County Historians Association, the Greater Utica Sports Hall of Fame, the Utica Harbor Point Commission, the Forest Hill Cemetery Board, the Knights of St. John Commandry #385, where he served as past president, the Landmarks Society, lifetime member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Chaiman of the Utica Scenic and Historic Commission and the Santa Rosalia Society. Lou regularly shared his historical insights through a column in the Daily Sentinel and was recognized in 2021 as the Oneida County History Center Volunteer. That same year, he received the American History Teacher Award from Oneida County and also the NYS Daughters of the American Revolution Award.

In addition to his civic and academic roles, Lou was also known for his enthusiasm for baseball. He was a devout and passionate Yankees fan and Cooperstown Hall of Fame enthusiast. Lou also was the announcer with his dear friend, Pete Pagliaro, for the Mohawk Valley Diamond Dawgs baseball team, earning Lou the nickname ""Voice of the Diamond Dawgs"". Lou also would be the Santa on the Polar Express Train, bringing joy to many children and families.

Lou's knowledge of local history and commitment to civic engagement made him a prominent figure across the city and entire region. He was truly loved by his community and his presence will surely be missed.

Surviving are his beloved sister, Marlo, whom he referred to as ""his person and best friend""; his cherished nephews, Jayden and Jared, who were like his own sons, ""his Bubbes""; uncles and aunts, Nicholas and Mary Parrotta, Jeanette Parrotta and Bill Bartell; many dear cousins, especially acknowledging Rose Ann Grasso, Marie Morosco and Anthony and Becky Zizzi; as well as his dear friends, Rob and Adrienne Sniezek, who were like family to Lou; and many other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. He also leaves his canine companion, Molly.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 10 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., at The Scala, Roefaro & Karboski Funeral Home, 1122 Culver Ave., Utica. The Knights of St. John Commandry #385 will assemble at 12:45 p.m. Funeral service prayers will commence at 1 p.m., with the Rev. John Buehler, officiating. Private interment will be in the family lot in St. Mary's Cemetery, Utica.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Rosalia Society in memory of Lou. Envelopes will be available.

As Lou would say, ""Play Ball!""

Arrangements entrusted to Scala, Roefaro & Karboski Funeral Home, 1122 Culver Ave., Utica. www.scalaroefaro.com.