In Memory of Eli A. Shaheen

Obituary

Eli A. Shaheen, 89, of New Hartford, died February 3, 2023 at his Florida home, surrounded by his loved ones.

Eli was born on July 20, 1933 in Utica, NY, son of the late Hickel and Louise Nassar Shaheen. He was a graduate of Utica Free Academy, and since age 14, worked in the family business, Shaheen Shoe Store. He then owned and operated the business for 71 years with his cousin and partner, George Shaheen. He was well known for his slogan “if your feet hurt, you can’t walk and you can’t play golf”, and encouraged everyone to always “hope for the best.”

On July 4,1959, Eli married Erika Kukulies in St. Louis Gonzaga Church in Utica. They shared a blessed union of 64 years. Eli loved spending time with his family, and he and Erika treasured their time at home and on the golf course in Florida. Eli enjoyed skiing and excelled in tennis in his younger years. He was a member of St. Louis Gonzaga Church and the Knights of Columbus.

Eli is survived by his beautiful and truly devoted wife Erika; his six children, Christine Bradley (Don), Eli Shaheen (Donna), Sue McGraw (Patrick), Lisa Cassisi, Lorie Haddad (Darren) and Tammy Wilson (Rick); his 14 grandchildren, Jim, Rachel, Colton, Sarah, Nick, Ryan, Taylor (Ryan), Marisa, Blake, Elizabeth, Jenna, Paige (Jason), Nicole and Danielle, and great-granddaughter, Keira. He is also survived by in-laws, Patty and Gloria Shaheen and Art Kukulies, many loving nieces,nephews, cousins and friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by three brothers; Dr. Samuel Shaheen, Dr. Albert Shaheen and Reverend Joseph Shaheen.

Calling hours are Friday, February 10th from 4-7PM at Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd. New Hartford. The Divine Liturgy for the Faithful Departed will be Saturday at 9:30AM, at St. Louis Gonzaga Church with interment in Calvary Cemetery.

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to the nurses at Hope Hospice in Southwest Florida for their care. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Hospice and Palliative Care in memory of Eli.