Constance "Connie" Grimaldi

Constance “Connie” (Rehder) Grimaldi went to heaven on Thursday April 23, 2026, in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loved ones. She married the love of her life Constantino (Stan) Grimaldi on July 27, 1956, a loving and blessed union of 68 years, until his passing on October 23, 2024. They were blessed with seven children and thirteen grandchildren.

Connie was born on January 30, 1936, to Herman and Pauline Kopic Rehder, in Grove City Ohio. There she attended Grove City High and graduated in the class of 1954. In addition to her studies, Connie was a cheerleader for the varsity basketball team. She was a significant role model for her younger brother Paul, taking him to cheerleading practice and including him in her activities when he was just three years old. Connie had a maternal instinct from a young age. Connie met Stan while he was serving in the U.S. Air Force. They returned to Utica where she raised her children. As busy as she was, she found time to volunteer at the Church Mouse thrift shop. She returned to the workforce and was employed for over 20 years with the Montgomery Ward Co., until her retirement.

Connie worked hard as a homemaker and mother for many years and was proud of her spotless home. She enjoyed spending time with her children and would light up when her grandchildren visited. Connie loved going to watch her grandsons’ band, The Midnight Shadows, play gigs around the Utica area. Connie found joy gardening and cross-country skiing over the years. She also loved traveling, visiting grandchildren all over the U.S. and as far away as Australia. Connie and Stan’s traveling adventures included a Mediterranean Cruise, Italy, Australia (Adelaide, South Australia, Kangaroo Island), Hawaii, New Mexico, Palm Springs, Lake Tahoe, Connecticut, Ohio, NYC, and Washington D.C.

Connie is survived by her seven children: Brenda (Joseph Martell), Steven (Dixie Hughes), Lori (Steve Middel), Mark (Dana Lambert), Karen (David Peer), Rosanne (Paul Appel), and Joseph Grimaldi, and thirteen grandchildren: Michael Martell, Bennett Middel, Brianna Middel (Brendon Barker), Kyle, Stefania, Paige, Joe Jr., Madison, Nicholas, Cassie (Joe Bucciero) and Gloria Grimaldi, Sofia and Christian Appel. She is survived by her brother Paul (Collette) Rehder, brother-in-law Joseph (Sonny) Grimaldi, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Connie leaves her childhood friend Linda Renico, her friend and co-worker Marion Bubel, and her hairdresser and friend Maria Tucci. She was predeceased by her sister Martha Geyer and brother Herman Rehder, Jr.

The family celebrated Connie’s Life in a private ceremony at The Scala, Roefaro & Karboski Funeral Home 1122 Culver Ave., Utica, with the Deacon Stan Olkowski officiating. Private interment will be in Carr Cemetery, Marcy at a later date.

The family would like to extend a sincere Thank You to the nurses and staff of Acacia Homecare, Henderson’s Homecare, and AIM Hospice Care Inc. for the care and compassion given to Connie and her family.

In lieu of flowers, you may consider donations to the charity of your choice.