Obituary of Joseph F. Fragetta

            Joseph Francis Fragetta passed away Saturday, November 11, 2023. He was born May 27, 1947 in Utica, NY to Frank Tory “Tex” Fragetta 1900-1990 and Vincenza “Jessie” Luggerio Fragetta 1916-1996. He had a sister, Eugenia Fragetta 1943-1976.

            Joseph graduated from Thomas R. Proctor High School in 1965. He earned an FCC Broadcast License in 1967, and an A.A.S.  in Advertising Design and Production (Cum Laude) from Mohawk Valley Community College in 1968. He earned a B.S. degree in Psychology from Syracuse University (Utica College) in 1976.

            Joseph worked for Vernon Downs Raceway for 25 years, and for New York State for 30 years, until he retired in 1997. He was an avid sports fan, particularly of the New York Yankees, Giants, and Rangers, and Syracuse University football.

            Joe was passionate about music, especially doo-wop and rock and roll. He had an extensive collection of vinyl records, and in his younger years he performed as an on-air DJ in Rochester and Buffalo.

            Joe enjoyed golf, hunting, fishing, photography, woodworking, and a good bingo or poker game. He often made trips to New York City to view his favorite sports teams.

            On August 7, 1993, he married his best friend and love of his life, Geraldine Drake Calvani. They had a happy and loving marriage until her passing in 2016.

            He leaves behind a stepdaughter, Cindy Calvani Northrup and husband David Northrup of Rome, NY, stepdaughter Kathleen Calvani Smith and husband Raymond Smith of Taberg, NY, and granddaughter Carissa Smith Rogler. He also leaves behind his cousins, Carol Cuchiarale Sanquine of Utica, NY, Marie Cuchiarale Bruno of Clinton, NY, Joseph Cuifo of Utica, NY, and Teresa Cuifo Munski of New Hartford, NY.

            Family and friends are invited to call at Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome NY 13440, on Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to be followed by a graveside service at 1:00 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery in Utica. In lieu of flowers, please instead send a donation to St. Jude’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, or the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

            You may view the obituary and send a message of sympathy at www.nunnandharper.com.