Calabrese, Eugene J.

ALBANY – Eugene J. “Gene” Calabrese, “Papa”, 92, passed away Monday, December 18, 2017 peacefully, surrounded by his loving family at St. Peter’s Hospital.

Born in Albany, he was the son of the late Rocco and Catherine (Lemme) Calabrese. Gene was a United States Army Veteran of WWII. Having served in the 28th division at the Battle of the Bulge in Normandy, France, he was wounded and received the decorated Purple Heart and Bronze Star medals for his heroic achievement and meritorious service in a combat zone. He was a carpenter with the New York State Office of General Services for many years.

Gene enjoyed the outdoors and was often seen taking long walks throughout Albany where everyone knew him. He loved being out in the world. He was a competitive golfer, and loved the sun. He relished in his trips to the beach with his family and grandchildren to swim in the ocean. He delighted in music; but most of all, dancing.He was a loving husband, caring father and grandfather; but the most special thing about Gene was his refusal to ever give up. He truly embodied someone who was fully alive. He was always determined to move forward. He defined “refuse to fade”.

He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Velma “Vel” (DiBiase); children Catherine Stack, Gene Calabrese, and Michael Calabrese (Mia); his grandchildren Nicole (Nick), Darcy (Anthony), Deanna (Steve), Giana, Mitchell, and Sophia; his five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Tom, Pat and Joe Calabrese.

His funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, December 27, at 10:30 am in The Parish of Mater Christi, 40 Hopewell St. Relatives and friends are invited to attend and may also visit with his family at the Church from 9:15-10:15 am. Inurnment will follow the Mass in Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may send donations to American Diabetes Association, 5 Pine West Plaza, Suite 505, Albany, NY 12205 or the Albany County Veterans Affairs, Tri County Council, Vietnam Era Veterans, PO Box 11100, Albany, NY 12211.