Patrick J Saggese

Patrick J. Saggese passed away on June 6, 2022.  He was born in Oneonta, NY, the son of Michael and Antoinette (Pastore) Saggese.  After graduating from Oneonta High School in 1944, he joined the United States Merchant Marines at the age of 17 to serve in World War II alongside his brothers Ralph, Ernest and Frank. After returning from duty, Patrick attended Hartwick College where he met his wife, Lorraine Gunther, and married in June 1951. They relocated to Ithaca, New York where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education at Ithaca College (IC) in 1957.  While at IC, he was a member of the football and track teams as well as President of Phi EK and Oracle Honor Society.  Immediately after graduation, Patrick began his career with the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) as the district’s first physical education teacher and his career spanned for more than three decades.  He was promoted to principal and worked at Enfield Elementary, South Hill Elementary, Fall Creek Elementary, Henry Saint John and Central School Elementary (Beverly J. Martin) and served as Assistant Superintendent.  Patrick was a respected leader and mentor and enjoyed spending time with his students and took pride in watching them do their best. Mr. Saggese will be remembered by his students for his kindness and compassion. Most importantly, he enjoyed spending time with his family camping, skiing and boating on Cayuga Lake. Patrick is survived his daughters: Susan Crisman and Elizabeth Saggese (Joseph Stacy), son: Steven Saggese (Carolann), grandchildren: Sarah Acker (Travis), Shaun Crisman (Amber), Anthony Saggese, Julianna Saggese, great granddaughter: Esme’ Acker, longtime companion Jack (rat terrier) and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Lorraine, brothers Ralph, Ernest and Frank Saggese, sisters: Margaret Polo, Kay Colacecchi, Mary Microni. Services for Patrick will be private. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Bangs Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be made to the family at www.bangsfuneralhome.com