Robert B. Dellecese

Robert B. Dellecese, passed away on Monday, October 20, 2025. Utica Robert was born in Utica on April 13, 1926, the last son of Frank A. and Marietta (Lena) Dellecese. He was brought up and educated in local schools. He graduated from Roosevelt School in 1940 and graduated from Proctor High School in 1944. Upon graduation he was inducted into the U.S. Navy seeing action at Okinawa in early 1945. Upon discharge from the Navy, he enrolled in the first class at Utica College in 1946. While in college, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in The Army Reserve for 3 years. He was honorably discharged early 1950. He continued his education and was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree In the class of 1953. On June 10, 1950, Robert married the former Dolores J. Poccia, his high school sweetheart. A marriage of more than 62 years, until her passing in July of 2012. They both enjoyed the Old Forge area and spent many days there, with their children and in-laws. Theirs was a marriage of love, respect and dedication to each other. In his lifetime, Robert has worn a few hats, quite successfully. After college, he joined and became associated with his father, Frank and his brother, Paul in the general contracting business, erecting many homes and other structures in and around the Utica area. He was also Licensed by New York as a certified real estate appraiser, a licensed real estate broker and a licensed Public Fire Insurance adjuster. Robert obtained the position of Adjunct Professor at Utica College. During that time, Robert was named Professor of the year, an honor and tribute to his teaching and communication skills. He really enjoyed giving the benefit his expertise and knowledge to his students. After teaching the appraisal courses, and the real estate licensing course there for 14 years, he also taught those courses at Utica Rome Educational Center. Robert was a guest lecturer about realty taxes at many Central New York organizations and appraisal at other schools, clubs and organizations. Robert's public service responsibilities began with his appointment by then Mayor Dominick Assaro as the first sole Commissioner of Assessment & Taxation for the City of Utica, servicing for a period of 11 years. He also re-evaluated the Village of Verona for tax purposes. In 1984, Governor Mario Cuomo appointed Robert as a Commissioner on the Board of Equalization and Assessment, later known as the Board of Real Property Services. Robert served this board for 14 years. His patriotism & dedication to his country was a tribute to him. In our community, Robert was part of many social organizations. He was past president of the Comity Club of Utica, it's secretary treasurer for more than 23 years, a member of the Optimist Club of Utica, a member of the Fort Schuyler Post American Legion and the Sons of Italy now known as the Italian Heritage Club. He served on the Board of Directors of The Utica Chapter American Red Cross for 6 years, and on the Board of Directors of the Utica Public Library and the board of Directors of the Stanley Theater. He was active in the Rotary club of Utica and was a Paul Harris Fellow. For many years, Robert was part of the Utica and Oneida County Democrat Committee, a member of Higby Hills Golf and Country Club, enjoying the friendship and camaraderie of the members, and also a part of the Motley Crew Dinner Club. Robert is survived by his son-in-law, David Jones; his son, David and his wife Donna; his grandchildren, Jodi Jones and her husband Dan Aubert, Bryan Jones, Michael Jones, David and Megan Dellecese and Daniel and Tara Dellecese; his great grandchildren, Kayla Jones, Jack Jones, Jason Aubert, Hadley Dellecese, Arianna Jones, Laci Jones, Lilly Jones, Dylan Jones, Bailey Jones, Derek Jones, Luca Jones and Hayley Jones; and many cousins. He was predeceased by his son, Robert in 1958; his wife, Dolores in 2012; and his daughter, Diane Jones in 2015. He is also survived by his business partner and good friend JoAnn Longo with whom he worked with for many years in the realty and appraisal field. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 24 at 12 pm at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, Utica, with Military Honors. The family will receive visitors after the Mass. Private interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Mark C. Bentz Funeral Service, Inc., New Hartford. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert B. Dellecese, please visit our floral store.