Raffaele Oliva, 81, a resident of Carmel for 43 years, died on Saturday, August 31, 2013 surrounded by his family.
Born in San Marzano, Italy on May 12, 1932, he was the son of Nicolo and Rosa Coppola Oliva. Raffaele served in the Italian Army and was employed as a union construction worker. He was a faithful parishioner of St. James the Apostle Church in Carmel where he served as an usher. He enjoyed playing cards with the Kent and East Fishkill Seniors and was an avid hunter.
Raffaele was predeceased by his wife, Grazia Crescenzo, on April 8, 1994. He is survived by his children and their spouses, Nick and Cathy Oliva of Hopewell Junction, Rosa and John McSwegan of Hopewell Junction, Frank and Lea Oliva of Hopewell Junction; his grandchildren, Nicole, Alyssa, Michael, Jacob, Grace and Francesca; his siblings, Rosa, Salvatore, Constantine and Lucia; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, he was also predeceased by his daughter Lucia in 2005; and his siblings, Peter, Frank and Elizabeth.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-9pm at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at 10am at St. Columba Church, 835 Route 82, Hopewell Junction followed by interment in Raymond Hill Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. For driving directions, online condolences and memorial donations, please visit Raffaele's Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.