Mario H. Villa

Mario H. Villa, 102, passed away comfortably on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at St. Mary’s Healthcare of Amsterdam.

Mr. Villa was born in Amsterdam on May 14, 1923 to the late Vincenzo (James) and Adelina DiCaprio Villa

He graduated from the former Wilbur H. Lynch Senior High School and served his country by joining the United States Army where he served throughout Europe as a “Tec 5” from 1943-45. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for valorous conduct in action while serving with Company ”B” , 10th Engineer Combat Battalion. He also received many other individual and unit citations. Between 1948-50 he served with the US Air Force and received the Army Occupation Medal with ”Japan” clasp.

Mr. Villa went on to work as a wage inspector with the New York State Department of Labor and later served two terms as mayor of the City of Amsterdam from 1980-87 and another term from 1990-95.

Mario loved Amsterdam and for fun He enjoyed golfing at the Amsterdam Municipal Golf Course where he played countless rounds. He was an honorary lifetime member of the “Muni” and will be sorely missed.

Mario’s life was exemplified by his service to others. He was a generous , humble and faithful man. His family is comforted knowing that he lived a full and meaningful 102 years.

Mario married Antoinette Carmella Friello Villa on December 10, 1950, Sadly, she passed away on September 24, 2011.

He is also predeceased by his son Dominick Richard Villa, sister Francesca and brothers Louis, Salvatore, Joseph and Frank.

Surviving are his son Michael (Patty) Villa, his daughter Adeline Villa Joyce, his younger brother Richard Villa, eight grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Mario’s family Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Riley Mortuary, 110 Division St., Amsterdam, NY 12010.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, May 30, 2025 at 11:00 am at Our lady of Mount Carmel Church with the Very Rev. O. Robert DeMartinis E.V. as celebrant .

The Rite of Committal and Military Honors will be at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery immediately following the Funeral Mass.

Please consider making a donation in Mario's name to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 39 St. John St., Amsterdam, NY 12010 or to John J. Wyszomirski American Legion Post 701, 123 West Main St., Amsterdam, NY 12010.