Laurie Ann Puleo

Laurie’s life was defined by the extraordinary partnership she shared with her husband, Michael, for 47 years. Inseparable soulmates, they embodied true, unconditional love through every chapter of their lives.

A devoted wife, mother, Nana, great-Nana, sister, aunt, and friend, Laurie’s energetic and bubbly personality touched everyone, fortunate enough to know her. She brought joy into every room she entered and made people feel welcomed, loved, and appreciated.

Laurie loved to cook and bake, filling her home with comforting aromas and happy, satisfied family and friends. She took great pride in creating a warm, clean, and inviting home. Music was always part of her routine—she would sing and dance as she cleaned, turning everyday tasks into moments of fun. One cherished memory was when “Walk Like an Egyptian” by The Bangles came on; Laurie would dance across the living room with playful “Egyptian hands,” laughing and singing before returning to her cleaning once the song ended.

Holidays were Laurie’s favorite time of year. She cherished traditions, decorating her home, gathering as a family, and celebrating under one roof. Another beloved tradition was her anniversary trips to Lake Tahoe with Michael, always including a special dinner at Garwood’s. Laurie also had a lifelong love for bears, collecting them and displaying them throughout her home. And although she was mostly Irish, she proudly told everyone she was Italian.

Laurie is survived by her husband, Michael; her mother-in-law, Jane Puleo, her three daughters, Michelle Puleo, Nina Simonds (Michael), and Lisa Nasca (Ted); her six grandchildren, Ariana Puleo, Dominick Flinkfelt, Garrett Simonds, Charlotte Simonds, Vincent Nasca, and Gianna Nasca; and her great-granddaughter, Alaina Puleo. She is also survived by the many friends of her daughters whom she lovingly “adopted” as her own whenever they needed a mom.

Laurie is also survived by her brother, William “Bill” McDonald of Utica, along with nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, extended family, and countless dear friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, William “Bill” McDonald and Shirley Wolfe; her brother, Kevin McDonald; and her father-in-law, Vincent Puleo.

Laurie will be remembered for her vibrant personality, generous spirit, unconditional love, beautiful smile and laugh, sense of fun, incredible cooking, and the countless memories she created with those around her. Her legacy lives on in the joy she brought to others and the love she poured into her family.