"Dad, it's hard to believe that 3 1/2 months have passed since you started your next journey. You were always a deeply spiritual and religious man, and I saw the strength of your faith throughout your life and especially at the end. I pray that I will have the same strength one day, and learn from your example. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and miss you, Dad. You truly were a larger-than-life presence for all of us. You were so good to my friends, always caring for and protecting them from things I was too young to understand... but they will always remember and love you for that. You gave us so much to be proud of! Love you, miss you and can't wait to see you again, Dad. xoxo PS: Mittens is so smart! Thank you for bringing her to me. Best gift ever."
In loving memory of
Philip Palumbo
October 9, 1929 - April 13, 2014
April 13, 2014. Predeceased by sister, Linda Petrella; brothers, Michael Frank Palumbo. Survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Gloria M. Palumbo; loving children, Elaine Cannon, Joyce Palumbo, Debbie (Frank) Acker-Arena, Philip M. Palumbo; adoring grandchildren, Brian (Kate) Cannon, Christopher (Bridgette) Acker, Lisa (Amy) Cannon; great-grandchildren, Jack, Tyler, Evan Drew Cannon, Chase Claire Acker; dear family friend, Mary Lightsey.
Philip's visitation is 2-4 7-9 PM on Wednesday at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane (between 390 Long Pond Rd). A liturgy of the word funeral service will be celebrated Thursday at 11 AM at Sacred Heart Cathedral, 296 Flower City Park, Rochester. Interment Riverside Cemetery. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association PO Box 3049, Syracuse, NY 13220 in Philip's memory.
Philip was born on October 9, 1929 to Francesco Filomena in Rochester, NY and grew up simply in the Jay Street area. He spoke both English and fluent Italian because of his roots in Leperano, Italy.
As a teen, Philip played football for Jefferson High School. After high school, he spent 8 years in the Army. Upon his return, he opened a gas station, worked at Delco for 15 years, and established his own company in 1976, Phonetix, where he worked until his retirement.
He met Gloria DeSanctis through mutual friends and they were married at Holy Apostles church on July 11, 1951. They raised 4 children and later actively enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren's pursuits.
Some of Philip's favorite ways to enjoy his spare time included La Familigia year event, golf, and horse breeding and racing. He was a great cook, an avid outdoorsman, owned farms and horses, and a camp in Canadice, NY that was built by his own hands. He even created a stream fed pond.
Philip liked the NY Yankees, Buffalo Bills, Johnny Carson, Frank Sinatra Dean Martin. He was a news advocate, watched Billy Graham, cooking shows, played guitar, and liked to watch the Godfather movies. His famous saying was "you play the hand you're dealt".
Family and friends would best describe Philip as someone who was extroverted, religious, patriotic, independent, and was witty with a great sense of humor. He pursued the American dream, was hard working, a great family provider, and a had a strong personality. He was a man's man. Philip will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.
Tributes
"Today is June 13th, and you have been gone for 2 months now Dad. It is hard to fathom that we can never chat again . But we believe with all of our hearts that we will meet again Dad , you told me we will and I believe you . Father's Day is nearly here, our first without you and this is heartbreaking for us all. May you be joyous in heaven with our Heavenly Father and all of your family that we know are so grateful to have you with them again . Until we meet again Dad. Love you always, Elaine"
"Dad,
yesterday was 1 month since you passed away . Their is so much grief in all of our hearts dealing with the loss of our Dad and Papa. We keep waiting to hear the phone ring to hear your strong cheerful voice asking us what's new , or how are the kids and grandkids doing . We miss you and love you more than we can ever say . Thank you for coming to Lisa in a dream to tell her and all of us you are happy and home and have no more pain , and that you love us .We pray you are at peace and surrounded by all of the family that passed before you . You are forever in our hearts Dad ! Until we meet again , watch over us and send us your strength . LOVE YOU ALWAYS, Elaine"
"Mr. Palumbo, (as I always called him) was a man I always admired. He worked so hard for his family, and every chance he could get, would make sure his kids had fun. Why I always loved him so, is that he would include me in the family fun and outings. He built a cottage with a pond in the back, there was a floating deck that the kids could swim from, and enjoy the country, that he so loved to share. I can remember going horse back riding, he had enough to deal with, having 3 young girls (Philip was not born yet), but I always felt welcome and cared for. I truly feel very sad for the family's loss of a wonderful father and husband, but the memories that he made special for everyone in his life, is soo great. Feel blessed that he was your husband and Dad. Love to all, and my deepest sympathy, Mary Gardner-Lake"
"Dear Joyce,I know how much your Dad was a part of you're everyday thoughts.I'm sorry for such a loss. Remember all the good times. He will always be with you in your heart. Sorry I didn't know about your loss until tonight. My prayers are with you. Always your friend Terry Q"
"Michael P Petrella purchased flowers (Red and White Handled Basket) With Deepest sympathy on the passing of your Father and our Uncle Phil. The Petrella Family"
"Our condolences for my dad's beloved Uncle Phil, and our thoughts and prayers to Auntie G, his children and grandchildren and close friends in this difficult time."
"Charles Caranci purchased flowers (Golden Memories Arrangement) Joyce & Family, Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Sincerely, Chuck, Angela and all your friends at LeChase Construction."
"Rest In Peace Phil.I love ya buddy. Till We meet again..."
"My deepest sympathy & condolence to the Palumbo family, I know You are feeling a great loss as am I.Phil was a good man.I cherish the time I spent with Him.He was a good friend & I will miss Him. He will live on in My memory.GOD bless Him."
"Dad, I will remember you every time I feel a warm breeze, the sun on my face, or hold a kitten in my arms. The things that brought you joy will forever be in my heart. I leaned over your hospital bed and whispered, "Please wait for me" ... and I know that you heard because you nodded your head. We will share another morning coffee one day soon and watch the sun rise together. So wait for me, Dad, and save enough room. Love always, Joycie. PS: I'm bringing my cats. You said I could."
"Phil was one of the people that I had the good fortune to meet and learn from through my job as a banker over these past 40 years. I was able to share the simple and beautiful joy of just being in the barn with Phil and his horses. Phil shared wisdom, truth, friendship, and a priceless pleasure away from all the world's strife in his barn with a horse. Thank you for sharing your special Dad with me Joyce. My prayers are with you and your family."
"What fun it always was being with you. I know you always made your family laugh, especially Auntie G as you surrounded everyone. With your love. Rest in peace and I know you will always be holding my hand. I truly
Loved you,a Uncle! Pam Carpenter Scott"
"Debbie and family our sincere condolences go out to you at this sad time and loss in your lives. I know how much you will miss him. The memories will always be there and he will never be far apart because everytime you think of him he's right there in your heart. "Rest in Paradise" Mr.Palumbo"
"Dear Elaine: My deepest sympathy to you and your family during this sad time. Love, Bedes"
"Your Grandfather sounded like he really enjoyed life and loved being surrounded by his family and friends. Remember, memories last forever."
"There is not enough time nor a perfect way to articulate the body of work that you have accomplished during your life. You led by example. I love you and will miss you. The memories will remain vivid always.......until we meet again PaPa."
"My heart is heavy for you all, but knowing your Dad is now free from tears, pain and worries will help your sorrow. He will be welcomed to his heavenly home by his family and friends to be present with his Lord in all His glory."
"Additional Tribute Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srXEtisKlxw&hd=1"