Raphael J. Cardinale, 97, of the Martin Luther Home and formerly of West Utica passed away Tuesday June 26, 2007 at the home. Raphael was born in Utica on September 16, 1909 the son of Nicola and Rose (Dalessio) Cardinale. At St. Joseph's Church, Utica on May 27, 1938 Raphael married Christine Saile a blessed union until her passing on March 23, 1990. For over 40 years Raphael owned and operated Cardinale Grocery Store in West Utica. Prior to this he was employed with Powell Muffler in Utica. He was a former member of St. Joseph's-St. Patrick's Church, Utica. Raphael is survived by a daughter and son-in-law; Diana and Robert Schmitt, Oneida, two sons and daughters-in-law; Nicholas and Mary Cardinale, Whitesboro and Norman and Helen Cardinale, Utica, eight grandchildren; Cheryl Pantke, Susan Miner, Douglas Schmitt, Kevin Schmitt, Nicholas Cardinale, Christopher Cardinale, Michael Cardinale, and Craig Cardinale, a sister; Angelina Cardinale, New Hartford, two brothers and sisters-in-law; Nicholas and Henrietta Cardinale, Clinton and Patrick and Dorothy Cardinale, Buffalo, and several great grandchildren. Raphael was predeceased by a brother; Angelo Cardinale, and two sisters; Theresa Massaro and Mary Cardinale. Private funeral services for Mr. Cardinale will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Those so wishing may make donations to the Lutheran Homes in Raphael's memory. The family would like to thank Dr. Vigneswaran Kandiah and the staff of Willow Way of the Martin Luther Home for all the loving care given to Raphael.