Frederick B. Mirabito

Frederick B. “Fred” Mirabito, 96, passed away at Chenango Memorial Hospital on Thursday, August 8, 2019.

Fred was born April 21, 1923, in Norwich, NY. He was the youngest member of his family of four brothers and one sister. Fred was predeceased by his parents, Salvatore and Josephine (LoCantro) Mirabito. Fred called Norwich his home and lived there his entire life, except for the 32 months he proudly served in WWII with the US Air Force, and the four and one-half years he spent attending Syracuse University. Fred graduated from Norwich High School in 1941. He graduated from Syracuse University in 1949 with a degree in political science. Fred was active in athletic activities at both Norwich High and at Syracuse University, where he earned a varsity letter in football.

On June 28, 1952, Fred married Ramona Estelle Dubick, and they shared 60 wonderful years together. Estelle was a school teacher for 30 years in the Oxford Academy School district. Her volunteer work during her retirement years was legendary. Estelle predeceased Fred on June 14, 2012.

In 1952, Fred started his career with the Norwich Pharmacal Co. in the Industrial Engineering Department. In his spare time, he sold property and casualty insurance. In 1958, William C. Craine asked Fred to join him as partner in what would become the Craine & Mirabito Agency. The agency grew rapidly and, upon Fred’s retirement, employed over 120 people. Fred was also active in local politics. In 1969, he was appointed and subsequently elected as Alderman of the 5th Ward on the City of Norwich Common Council where he dedicated five years of service. Fred would go on to run for the Office of Mayor of the City of Norwich, winning four consecutive terms and serving eight fruitful years in this capacity. Upon his first election as Mayor in 1974, Norwich was experiencing a healthy economy and, with Fred’s leadership, continued to grow. It was an exciting time in Fred’s long and prosperous life.

Upon his retirement from Craine & Mirabito, Fred and Estelle purchased property in Florida and enjoyed spending time at both of their homes here in Norwich and in the Sunshine State. Fred was an avid golfer and cherished time spent with friends and family.

Fred is survived by his sister, Concetta “Tiny” Mirabito, as well as many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. Fred also leaves behind his close friends, Rick Runyon, and Monroe and Pat Grassi. Fred is predeceased by his brothers Jim Mirabito, Salvatore “Toots” Mirabito, Frank Mirabito, and Joe Mirabito.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Fred will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 14, 2019, at the Church of St. Bartholomew, where the Rev. Ralph A. Bove, pastor, will officiate. Friends are invited to call at the Wilson Funeral Home on Tuesday from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. The Rosary will be recited for Fred at 5:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred’s memory may be made to the St. Bartholomew Church Capital Campaign, 30 Pleasant Street, Norwich, New York 13815.