Obituary of Steven J. Cannizzaro

On Thursday, July 23, 2020, Steven J. Cannizzaro loving brother and uncle passed away at the age of 58. He was born on December 7, 1961, in Amsterdam to Salvatore and Virginia (Capel) Cannizzaro. He resided at 29 Lindbergh Avenue in Amsterdam, with the most wonderful staff that we are so thankful for.

Shortly after Steve's birth, he was diagnosed with Down Syndrome. The doctor told his parents that a Downs child would not live long and would not accomplish much. He suggested Steve be institutionalized. But his parents adamantly refused that suggestion. With the help of Special Education he graduated from Amsterdam High School in 1983. Shortly after, he was enrolled in Liberty. With their help and guidance he was able to work at several local businesses. He was a hard worker and had excellent concentration skills and paid attention to detail. Steve loved to go to work so much that on one snowy, winters day when bus transportation was cancelled, he begged his father to drive him to work. Liberty was closed when they got there! From that day forward, he hated snow! He didn't even want to hear that word.

He loved to sing in the church choir and play in the Bell choir. He liked bowling, miniature golf, bingo and gambling at the casino and racetrack. He was a fan of Country Music and loved to dance. He had an extensive collection of "I Love Lucy" memorabilia and knew everything there was to know about Lucy and Desi.

Steve was a special person whose friendly personality and beautiful smile made people feel comfortable and at ease to be around someone with Down Syndrome. He was a gentle, funny, clever and an amazing man who lived a full happy life. Most importantly he was loved, and has left a special place in everyone's heart.

Steve was preceded in death by his father Sam and his mother Virginia. He is survived by his sister Marie (Cannizzaro) and Gary Kwiatkowski of Jamison, Pa and brother Michael and Deborah (Swart) Cannizzaro of Canton Ga, an Aunt Josephine Capel of Amsterdam and nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at 10a.m. at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Amsterdam. The funeral will be broadcast Live on the BRBS FaceBook Page.  Memorial donations in his memory may be sent to Liberty ARC, 43 Liberty Drive, Amsterdam, NY 12010.  Please visit he online memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com