Obituary of Melanie A. Potaczala

    Ms. Melanie A. Potaczala, 62, of New Hartford, NY passed away on January 14, 2024, at Wynn Hospital, Utica, with her loving daughter at her side.

    Melanie was born in Utica, on March 4, 1961, the daughter of Dr. Bert and Marie (Soule) Austin.   Melanie was raised in Utica and was a graduate of Utica Free Academy.  Melanie was employed by Bio Reference as a Phlebotomist, located in NYSDOC Mohawk Correctional Facility in Rome, NY. Melanie was a loving mother and grandmother and will be missed by all that know her. Melanie had a giant heart that was at times masked by sarcasm, but she had nothing love for everyone around her. In her free time she enjoyed gardening, crafting, shopping and most of all being a grandmother and spoiling her grandchildren and daughter.

    Melanie is survived by her daughter Tess Potaczala (Michael Calogero), Rome, NY, her adored grandchildren Caelen Wengert and Scarlett Calogero, her siblings Andrea (Ralph) Cianfarano of Fulton, Valerie Austin of OH, Peter (Jean) Austin of WI, Pam Laurenzi of ME, Paul (Paula) Austin of MD and Michael (Yvonne) Austin of VA. Also, many nieces and nephews; Elyse and Katie Cianfarano, Austin (Lindsey) Hyland, Heather (Michael) Grimaldi, Kimberly (Jamie) Helmstetter amongst many others. As well as her friend Ray Ryan. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister Diane Desnoyers and brother Dan Austin.

    The daughter and family would like to extend a thank you to the Wynn Hospital ICU East staff. 

   Calling hours for family and friends will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 12:00 PM-2;00 PM at the Heintz Funeral Service, Inc., 1517 Whitesboro Street, Utica, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM at the conclusion of visitation.