Carmen F. Zeolla Sr.

Carmen F. Zeolla Sr., 93, of Camillus, passed away Sunday at home. A lifetime resident of the Syracuse area, he was a graduate of Vocational High School and attended University College. 

Carmen dedicated over 30 years to General Motors Corp., retiring in 1993, after previous employment with the New York Central Railroad Company and American Optical Company. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he served as commander of the Korean War Veterans Chapter 105. Carmen was deeply involved in his community, serving as an usher at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and leading Samaritan Center volunteers in feeding the hungry and homeless for many years. He also founded the Cicero Falcons Pop Warner football team.

An avid golfer, skier, and passionate Syracuse University sports fan, Carmen was also a talented landscape artist. Ever curious, he embraced lifelong learning and pursued new hobbies throughout his life. Above all, Carmen was a devoted husband, father, and friend, treasuring his family and taking great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Carmen was predeceased by his son, Frank; parents, Frank and Grace; brothers, Tony, John, and Joe; and sisters, Rose, Lena, Ann, and Susan.

Surviving are his wife, Dr. Donna; daughters, Grace (Gary) Palladino of Cicero, Karen (Mark) Cody of Hutto, TX, and Mary Ann "Mimi" (Larry) Baker of Syracuse; son, Carmen F. Jr. (Heather) of Baldwinsville; ten grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends may call Thursday, October 24, 2024, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 259 E. Onondaga St., Syracuse. A funeral Mass will follow at the church. 

Carmen will be laid to rest in Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Syracuse.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Cathedral Emergency Services, 264 E. Onondaga St., Syracuse, NY 13202.