Norman "Nonnie" Pensero

Norman “Nonnie” Pensero age 88, of Utica, passed away on Thursday April 27, 2023, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, with the love of his family in his heart.

He was born in Utica on December 3, 1934, a son of the late Frank and Mary Musa Pensero. He went to Utica Free Academy and was a graduate of Utica College of Syracuse University with a BS degree in Liberal Arts. He was married to Roberta J. Reese in 1956, a Sacred Union of 66 years. This happy union was blessed with 7 children.

Nonnie was employed for many years by the City of Utica, as the Youth Bureau Recreation Director, until his retirement. He was a member of the Utica Sports Boosters and was inducted into the Utica Sports Hall of Fame in 2009. Nonnie was 7th on the all-time leading Basketball Scorer list at Utica College, as well as the first ever Little All-American player at the college.

Surviving are his beloved wife Roberta and children: Judy (Tom) Wildenger of Clinton NY, David (Mae) Pensero of Sylvan Beach NY, Janet Pensero DeLoach of Utica, NY, Mark Pensero of Ilion NY, Stephen Pensero of Syracuse NY, Karen Pensero Shanley of Utica, NY, and Gregory (Becky) Pensero of Forest HIll, MD. He leaves 12 beloved grandchildren and 10 beloved great grandchildren; his sister in law Rose Pensero, special niece Adana Graziano and nephew Franny Pensero. He was predeceased by his only brother Anthony Pensero.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday May 11, 2023, at 11:00 am in Mary, Mother of Our Savior Church (Our Lady of Lourdes Campus) 2222 Genesee Street in Utica. The family will greet all visitors at the conclusion of Mass at the church. Private interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Should friends desire, please consider a donation to the Boys and Girls Club of Utica or Evelyn’s House of Utica.