Philip F. Domser

1947 ~ 2026

Mr. Philip F. Domser, of Deerfield, passed away, peacefully, at the Abraham House in Rome, NY, on February 7, 2026, with his wife, Martha, at his side.

Philip was born on November 18, 1947, in Utica, NY, the son of P. Francis (Frank) and Margaret (Reilly) Domser. Phil attended St. Francis DeSales School and graduated from Whitesboro Central School in 1965. He went on to earn an Associate's Degree in Fire Science from Mohawk Valley Community College. Drafted into military service in July 1967 to 1969, Phil served, with distinction, as a member of the 1st Infantry Division, known as the "Big Red One," in Vietnam. He received several medals acknowledging his dedication and valor. Following his honorable discharge, Phil joined the Utica Fire Department on September 11, 1974 and dedicated 34 years of service, retiring in 2008 as a lieutenant. On May 10, 1980, he was united in marriage with Martha Cunningham at Blessed Sacrament Church. The couple enjoyed 45 years of marriage and were blessed with four children.

A dedicated community member, Phil participated in various lodges and clubs, including Boonville Elks 2158, the Moose Club, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Masonic Remsen Lodge #677. He served as a Town Councilman of Deerfield for many years, continuing a family legacy of public service. He was also an active member of the CNY Corvair Club and earned multiple awards for his distinguished Corvair collection.

Phil took immense pride in his achievements, notably when he was recognized as a Hometown Hero by the Utica Comets.

Phil is survived by his wife, Martha; their children, Sara (Charles), Philip, III, Katherine (Katie) and Megan; as well as four grandchildren, Jacob, Michael, Jennifer and Nicholas. He is also survived by his brother, Christopher; aunt, Irene Haracz, of Amsterdam, NY; in-laws, Robert Cunningham and Judith Cunningham-Roth; nieces and numerous cousins; and two close friends, Tim Colson and Dave Robinson.

The family extends sincere gratitude to Dr. Win for his care and compassion, the staff of the Abraham House in Rome for their support and the Utica Fire Department, especially Captain Puleo and Rick Irizarry, for their assistance and friendship.

Calling hours for family and friends will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 3-6 p.m., at Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., North Utica. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 14, at 10 a.m., from St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St., Utica.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Abraham House, 417 N. Washington St., Rome, NY 13440.

Fond memories and messages of sympathy may be shared at www.heintzfuneralservice.net.