Dolores J. Morelli, 80, died peacefully on November 12, 2015 after a short illness. She was born on January 21, 1935 to Bernard and Mary (Macieczyk) Zalandkofski in Utica, N.Y. She was raised a farmer's daughter and educated through the 8th grade in a one-room schoolhouse called, "The Old School," in Frankfort, N.Y. and later in Utica schools. Dolores worked in many factories during the Utica factory "heyday" including Utica Knit, GE, and Utica Cutlery. She possessed a strong work ethic that she instilled in her children, often working two jobs and putting herself through nursing school. One of her proudest moments was graduating from the Utica School of Practical Nursing in 1973. Throughout her nursing career, she worked at various institutions in the Utica and Albany areas. However, she always cherished her employment at St. Luke's Hospital on the maternity ward, holding all the newborns. She was also fortunate to be able to watch many of her own grandchildren being born. Her strong work ethic continued until her retirement in 1989 from the Veterans Hospital in Albany. During her retirement, she enjoyed her days attending the Resource Center for Independent Living and caring for her many beloved cats. She was also a member of The Women of the Moose Lodge # 450. She is predeceased by her parents and sister, Bernadette Hoole. She is also predeceased by her husband James F. Gagnon, Sr., whom she wed on June 4, 1955. She is survived by her loving husband, Norman Morelli. They were married on August 18, 1989 and shared 26 years in union, in which they took many country rides together. She is also survived by her sister Mary Brink in Rockledge, F.L., her six children, James F. Gagnon Jr. (Dale), Susette Majtan (Jack), Jeffrey Gagnon (Margie), Mary Cornette (Brad), Bernadine Gagnon (Jim), and her daughter Ann Welch (Jeff), whom, lovingly cared for her during her retirement and throughout her illness. She is also survived by her special niece Debbie Kingsley (Hoole) and her family, as well as twelve grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Mrs. Morelli's funeral will be held on Monday, November 16, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at Historic Old St., John's Church in Utica where her Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated. Interment in St. Stanislaus and Casimir Cemetery in Whitesboro will be held at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Presbyterian Home and Services, Elm Unit, for their care over the last seven months. Those wishing to donate, may do so to the American Cancer Society or the Stevens-Swan Humane Society of Oneida County in memory of Dolores. Arrangements have been entrusted to Heintz Funeral Service, Inc., Utica