John Sauro's Obituary
John Sauro, 87, of Camillus, passed away gracefully and peacefully on December 2, 2019 with his family at his side, after a brief illness. Born in Syracuse to parents Giuseppe and Carmella, he was recognized by family, friends and business associates as a kind, generous and humble man. John was a masterful story teller and jokester, who shared “west end” childhood memories, stories of his time in the drum corps; and he especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren to whom he instilled the characteristics of honesty, integrity and hard work. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War and then went on to work for Armour & Company. John owned and operated Oneonta Beef, Inc. for 45 years. John and his wife Diane, along with their three sons, opened Sauro’s Restaurant on Spencer St. for 14 years. It was a place for friends and family to gather for good food and conversation and family celebrations, until its closure in 1995.
In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brothers, Anthony, Michael, Daniel and Nicholas.
John is survived by his wife of 62 years, Diane (Fabrizio); sons, John (Diane) of Westvale, Phillip (Teresa) of Onondaga and Stephen of Solvay; grandchildren, Joseph, Olivia and Nicholas, Zachary and Katherine, Jessica and great-grandchildren, Xavier and Zayne; sisters, Ann Dadey of Nevada and Lucy Stewart of West Virginia, along with several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, December 6, 2019 from 8:45 am – 10:45 am at St. Joseph’s Church, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus, NY, followed by a Funeral Mass in celebration of John’s life at 11am in St. Joseph’s Church. Entombment will follow in St. Mary’s Mausoleum, DeWitt.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Clear Path for Veterans, 1223 Salt Springs Rd., Chittenango, NY 13037.
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