Raymond "Campy" Donald Campanella's Obituary
Raymond “Campy” Donald Campanella, 71, of Syracuse, passed away Sunday at Upstate University Hospital. He was born in Syracuse, graduated from North High School, and served in the U.S. Army. Ray retired from Syracuse University after 34 years of service. After retirement, he worked at the Turning Stone Casino and Yellow Brick Road Casino. Ray was a longtime member of Pastime Athletic Club. He was an avid baseball fan and his favorite team was the Brooklyn Dodgers; “with a name like Campanella, I would have to be.” Ray loved Paris, going to casinos, and watching cowboy and war movies. Ray will be remembered for his warmth, wit, and humor in any situation; everyone would gravitate to him.
He was predeceased by his parents, Louise (Costa) and Anthony Campanella, and his brother, Peter Campanella.
Ray is survived by his wife, Frances Swiecki of Chittenango; his son, Donald (Luanne Thayer) Campanella of Vernon; his step-son, Craig; his brother, Anthony Campanella of Liverpool; his niece, Janet (James) Elchynski; his best friend, John Green of Lyncourt, and his fur babies, C.C. and Harley.
Ray’s family would like to thank Dr. Carhart, Dr. Villarreal, and the Cardiology staff at Upstate; and the wonderful care he received at Upstate and Community Campus, St. Joseph’s Wound Care, and HCR Home Care. Also special thanks to our neighbors, the Button, Lowe, and Buck families, Suzanne and Diane.
A Funeral Service in celebration of Ray’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, January 20, 2017 at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME. Burial will be in Assumption Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, January 19, 2017 at the funeral home, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY.
Donations may be made to Wanderer’s Rest, 7138 Sutherland Dr., Canastota, NY 13032.
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