Mrs. Theresa M. "Tre Christiano" Simonik

UTICA – Mrs. Theresa M. "Tre" (Christiano) Simonik, age 94, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 27, 2025, and was reunited with her loved ones who went before her.

Born in Utica on August 24, 1931, Theresa was the daughter of the late Philip and Christina (Carlone) Christiano. Raised and educated in East Utica, she remained a lifelong resident who cherished her hometown and took great pleasure in all it had to offer, especially its beautiful lakes, welcoming restaurants, and nearby casinos. It was here that she found love, became a devoted mother, and formed many lasting friendships along the way.

On June 1, 1957, she married her beloved husband, William E. "Bill" Simonik. Their union was blessed with the birth of their only child, Karen, born on their second wedding anniversary. The couple shared more than 61 devoted years of marriage until Bill's passing on January 29, 2019.

Theresa took great pride in her role as a homemaker. Though her home was never quiet, filled with music or the hum of the television, she poured her heart into its care. She could always be found early in the morning cleaning or tending to her garden. She was blessed with a green thumb, a gift passed down from her father. Theresa was the main character in any room, always meticulous about her appearance and often ready with a sharp, humorous remark. The only thing she kept more precise than her home and her hair was her car! No one could detail a car quite like Theresa Simonik.

Following the joys of raising her child, Theresa was proud to begin her career as a bus driver for the Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter. She loved her work and made a lasting impact on the residents, who affectionately called her "Linda's Aunt" and were heartbroken when she retired after 25 years of dedicated service.

Theresa was very social and could always be found on Tuesday nights at 5:30 p.m. at Carmella's Café with her good friend Patti Trimboli after they spent the afternoon at the Turning Stone Casino. Even in her 90s, she stayed connected, texting regularly with family and friends. She took comfort in knowing her family had inherited that same sociable spirit, as they gathered often for both small and large occasions-there was never any need for a formal family reunion. She loved animals, especially cats, and held a deep love for her Lord. She remained faithful to her religion throughout her entire life.

If you'd like to truly honor Theresa's life, raise a Southern Comfort Manhattan-hold the cherry juice!

Theresa is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Charles "Chuck" Trascritti, Jr. She mourned the loss of her first grandchild, Kaliegh Trascritti. She leaves to cherish her memory her grandson and his wife, Aaron and Christine Trascritti. She fondly remembered her siblings and their spouses who preceded her, Angelo and Marie Christiano, Louis and Grace Christiano, Margaret "Marge" and Dominick Greco, Joseph and Philomena "Fannie" Christiano, Arthur "Art" and Anna Christiano, and infant John Christiano. She is survived by several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews with special mention of Joanna Greco, Phyllis M. Christiano and Rick Trinco, and her goddaughter, Linda Greco.

Theresa was predeceased by her niece, Marie A. "MiMi" (Christiano) Arcuri; great-nephew, Joseph P. "Joey" Dardano; and her closest friend, Patricia "Patti" Trimboli.

The family extends their gratitude to the staff at the Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Rome for their care and compassion, especially acknowledging Hillary, Josh, and Felicity.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Theresa's Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Rosary Campus. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Theresa's honor may be made to The ARC, Oneida-Lewis Chapter online at https://www.thearcolc.org/donate/; envelopes will also be available at the service. Those who are unable to attend may be present virtually at https://www.youtube.com/c/JoeSalernoOLOL. Entombment will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.