Silvio Ceneviva

Silvio Ceneviva
March 9, 1937-May 2, 2025

Silvio Ceneviva, a genuine, loving and devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all who met him, went home to the Lord on May 2, 2025. He has joined the love of his life, Eleonora, in eternal Paradise.

Silvio was born on March 9, 1937, in Pianopoli, Italy (CZ) to Agostino Ceneviva and Rosa (Caruso) Ceneviva. He was one of four siblings. Silvio married Eleonora Tripodi on October 1, 1960, before they came to America, became citizens, and began a new life. Despite not having been born here, and without knowing the language, Silvio worked tirelessly often holding multiple jobs to build their life. Silvio and Eleonora settled in Herkimer, NY, where they resided the rest of their amazing lives, devoted to God and family.

Silvio lived his 88 years with his enormous heart full of love for everyone in his life. Anyone who spent time with Silvio could feel that love. Together with his wife of nearly 65 years, they grew their beautiful family, always teaching that the home is meant to be filled with food, laughter, and the people you love most. Silvio’s door was open to anyone who shared his kind spirit. He gave of himself physically and emotionally to anyone who needed his help, care, and generosity. He would invite friends and family in, pour a glass of his famous homemade wine, and break bread whether it was to reminisce, to make new memories, or because someone just needed his wise but tender advice.

What Silvio treasured most, though, are the countless hours spent with his family. Even his number one pastime, gardening, was done with family. Sunday pasta was his favorite, a tradition that lasted right until his passing and which will be carried on by his children and grandchildren. His children were his and Eleonora’s pride and joy, to be followed by their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He had special relationships with every single one, and the smile on his face when he’d look around at everyone gathered at his table is unforgettable. Those who were lucky enough to know Silvio know that famiglia is everything. It is also well known that there is one title he cherished above all - “Nonno.” There will never be another Nonno like him.

Silvio is survived by 6 children who are forever grateful for having the best father and mother: Rose Burroughs and her partner Joe Pashley of Frankfort, NY; Silvia Graziadei and her partner Peter Macri of Herkimer, NY; John and his wife Laurie of Avon, NY; Lisa Green and her husband Chip of Herkimer, NY; Bianca Hausauer and her husband Scott of Pinehurst, NC; and Silvio, Jr. and his wife Alisa of Ilion, NY. He is also survived by his wonderful grandchildren Rick Burroughs (Bethany), Danielle Patrei (Chris), Kristina Crane (Joshua), Philip Graziadei (Lauren), Daniel Graziadei (Kristen), Gina Billington (Seth), Johnny (fiancee Ally), Isabella, Ava, Mya, Dominic, Silvio, Luca, and Joseph; and also great-grandchildren Eliana, Liam, Rosie, Salvatore, Giovanni, Sofia, Scarlett, Luna, Anthony, and another blessing on the way. He is also survived by his brother, Agostino (Frank) Ceneviva and his wife Teresa, sister-in-law, Giuseppina “Pina” Palmiotto, sister-in-law Rafaela Schmelzer, sister-in-law Angelina Ceneviva, and brother-in-law Francesco Iuliano.

Silvio was pre-deceased by his soul mate and wife, Eleonora, parents Agostino and Rosa, his newborn son James, his sister Maria and brother Domenico, his in-laws Giovanni and Angelina Tripodi, his son-in-law Phil Graziadei, and his beloved grandson Jamie Burroughs. He joins them now in eternal peace.

There will be no calling hours. An open mass honoring Silvio’s beautiful life will take place on Friday, May 9th, at 9:30 a.m. at Francis De Sales Church in Herkimer, NY. A Christian burial will immediately follow at Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements are under the caring guidance of the locally owned and family operated, Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service, (next to Hannaford Markets), 527 E. Albany St., Herkimer, NY.

The family would like to thank all of the friends and family who have reached out in prayer, along with the healthcare professionals who were by our side. We are forever grateful to all of you.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude’s Children Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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