AUBURN | Augie B. Checkini, 102, of Wright Avenue, Auburn, passed away peacefully late Wednesday evening, Jan. 9, 2013, at the Veteran's Hospital in Syracuse, along side his loving wife. He was born in Auburn on Jan. 1, 1911, the son of August and Nancy Baldelli Checkini and had been a life resident. Augie was a World War II Army veteran, having served in the Philippines, New Guinea and the Pacific Theatre. He was awarded numerous medals while serving our country. Augie had been employed for many years by the former Button Shop in Auburn, as an Industrial Press Operator. Augie was an avid gardener and bicycle rider. He kept riding his bike all over, well into his late 90s. He also loved to travel with his family and friends. Augie was a wonderful, loving husband, stepfather, grandfather and friend to many. He led a very simple, but beautiful life and cherished the many times spent with his family. Augie will be sadly missed by each and every one of them. He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Elza Mayhoffer Checkini; a daughter, Agnes (Randy) Russell; two beloved grandchildren, Ashley and Kaitlyn Russell; very special niece, Marie (Michael) Didio; niece, Frances (Thomas) Glanton; niece, Mary (David) Kudla; niece, Nancy (Michael) Kiefe; nephew, Joseph (Andrea) Conboy; nephew and godson, John (Jean) Dellonti; nephew, August (Maryann) Checkini; nephew-in-law, James Jacoby, as well as several other great nieces, nephews, great-great nieces and nephews and a great-great-great nephew. In addition to his parents, Augie was predeceased by a step-son, Hudson Desa; sisters, Elizabeth Dellonti and Sarah Conboy; brothers, Albert and Gino Checkini and a niece, Gina Jacoby. Calling hours were Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St., Auburn. Military honors and services followed at 5 p.m. inside the funeral home. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, due to the great care and compassion shown to Augie during his stay in the Veterans Hospital, the family requests donations be made in his memory to the Veterans Medical Center Hospital, 800 Irving Ave., Syracuse, NY 13210 or to a charity of one's choice .
