- Mr. Daniel P. Cotrupe, age 89, of Utica, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 16, 2010 at the St. Joseph Nursing Home with his loving family by his side.
Born in Utica on April 12, 1921, Daniel was the son of the late Pasquale and Antoinette (Andidero) Cotrupe. He was raised and educated locally, and attended Utica Free Academy.
A veteran of World War II, Dan served his country in the United States Air Force as a bombardier in the 451st bomb squadron operating a B24 Liberator aircraft. He flew missions during the campaigns in the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater of Operations.
On October 26, 1946 he wed the former Rose M. Rizzo with whom he shared 53 years prior to her passing on October 13, 1999; as a couple, they strengthened each others character and affectionately honored each other daily by writing a little note of remembrance. Their children take comfort in knowing that Dan & Rose are reunited, and their love lives on in their childrens lives. Dan enjoyed a diversified working life. He was employed by the Griffiss Air Force Base for 16 years, and he also served as a United States Postal service carrier for over 20 years, retiring in 1979. Dan always had the needs of his family life at heart. A hard-working and industrious man, he loved to be in the company of people. Business opportunities were always a great part of his life, including his years as manager and bartender at the family restaurant, Rizzos, on Seneca Turnpike. He also took pride in operating a small store on Lansing Street to accomodate the children of the neighborhood during his retirement. His greatest passion was selling his wares when he operated Danco Products for many years. Above all else, Dan will best be remembered for caring for his family and creating camaraderie with those he served. The time he spent with his children, grandchildren, and generations to follow gave him much joy. He treasured the earlier years at the Rutger Street homestead filled with generations of family. He always had his home and heart opened to those he loved and honored and celebrated all of lifes special occasions.
Dan was a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers, and at one time, the American Legion Fort Schuyler Post. He was a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish.
Dan is survived by his children, Daniel P. and Deborah Cotrupe of West Falls, NY, Diane C. and John Petzke, Jr. of Cassville, Frank and Carol Cotrupe of Whitesboro, and Linda Cotrupe of Plattsburg, NY. Always close to his heart was the memory of his son, Richard, who passed away on July 1, 2007. He also leaves his grandchildren, Michele Cotrupe, and Brandi Cotrupe; Leigh and Terrell Dye, David Cotrupe, Rebecca and Todd Cushman, John III, and Crista Petzke, Danielle and Chad DeStefano, Paul Petzke, Pamela Petzke; and Frank, Michael, Matthew, Samuel, Francesca, and Vincent Cotrupe; and his five great-grandchildren, Gianna, Isabella Rose, Frankie, Giavanna, and Christian. Survivors also include his nieces and nephews, especially his nephew Joseph Cotrupe who Dan loved as one of his own, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Marion Tenenini, Michael and Candy Rizzo, and Joann Rizzo; and the many friends with whom he was blessed throughout his lifetime. He was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Anne and Sam Bossone, Catherine and Anthony Darby Longo, Mary D. Millie and Rocco Tofolo; his brother and sister-in-law, Joseph Judger and Carmella Cotrupe; and his in-laws, Philomena Carciofolo, John Rizzo, Rocco Rizzo, Peter Tenenini, Dominick Rizzo, and Pasquale Rizzo.
The family extends gratitude to Dr. Samson Pachikara, and Dr. Dilip Kachare for their professional yet personal concern. The past four years have been enhanced by the love and support of the Carmelite Sisters at St. Josephs, and the 3rd floor caregivers who were sincerely and genuinely compassionate. Dan and his children felt blessed that he was cared for by such a loving extended family. A special note of praise is offered to Fr. David Sambor for his prayers.
The family will gather privately to honor and celebrate Daniels life. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Daniels funeral service which will be held on Tuesday morning at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Military Honors. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the St. Joseph Nursing Home, Feed the Children, or to the American Diabetes Association ; envelopes will be available at the Mass. Entombment will take place privately in Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Dan was a lifelong blood donor and in his memory the family welcomes you to continue his tradition and donate when able.
Published in The Observer-Dispatch from July 17 to July 19, 2010
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1921 - 2010 (89 years) 
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