Obituary of Deacon Peter P. Vanelli

Deacon Peter P. Vanelli, a life resident of Syracuse, passed away July 5, 2016 in his sleep surrounded by family and friends in his house so many called a home. He was predeceased by his wife of 33 years Mary J. (Squidrito), his children John and Anthony. He is survived by his children Thomas, Maria, Joseph, and Robert, his Daughter-in-laws, Kathy, Mary and Maria, seven Grandchildren and two great Grandchildren. As a Deacon of 38 years, he was called to serve. He ministered the community at Saint Charles Borromeo Church for 32 years, and also served at Saint Brigid - St. Josephs and Saint Peters Churches. He celebrated as the Deacon at the Easter sunrise mass at Burnet Park for the past 38 years. He ministered our military veterans at the Syracuse VA Medical Center, worked with mentally disabled children, developed and participated in programs to feed the homeless at the Oxford Inn, and ministered to the homebound Deacon Peter Baptized countless children and adults, facilitated Weddings, participated in numerous community events and crop walks to feed worldwide hunger and raise awareness for those in need. These selfless acts of kindness and good deeds earned him the prestigious Monsignor Charles Brady Award. Deacon Vanelli had the papal blessing bestowed upon him by Pope Francis. Services will be held Tuesday, July 12th at 12:00 at St. Brigid-St. Josephs Church, 318 Herkimer St. Syracuse. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery Dewitt. Calling hours will be held Monday, July 11th from 4 to 7 pm at the Church. The vigil for a Deacon will be held at 7pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the food pantries of Saint Charles Borromeo, Saint Brigid-St. Joseph's or Saint. Lucy's Churches or to St. Judes Children's Hospital or Gollisano's Children's Hospital.