Columbus, OH — Carol R. Okusko, 83, died July 15, 2019, in Oneida Healthcare Center after being stricken ill at home.

She was born April 17, 1936 in Utica, N.Y., a daughter of the late John and Gertrude (Amerine) Robinson and was a graduate of St. Francis de Sales School.

On July 23, 1955, she and Howard W. Okusko were united in marriage in Utica, N.Y., and shared only days short of 64 years together.

In her early working career she was employed with the Utica Phone Company. She and Howard then operated the Utica Dry Cleaning Company and then the Utica Paint Company. Later on the couple became involved with harness racing at Vernon Downs and Mr. Okusko is still operating a very successful stable.

Mrs. Okusko was a member of the USTA and a very active member of the Harness Horsemen’s Association of Central New York where she was currently serving as vice president and was a driving force of the association and a great advocate for the local horsemen and women and the sport of harness racing.

Surviving are her husband, Howard W. Sr.; sons and daughters-in-law, Billy (Shawn) and Howard Jr. (Jessica); granddaughter, Candice (John) Phelps; grandson, Jan (Casey); great-grandchildren, Layne, Elin, Mila, Jameson and Josephine; also grandchildren, Austin (Liz) Garofalo, Oliver Prentice, Kayla Prentice, Blair Prentice and Derek (Veronica) Bryant; family member, Gary Bryant; nieces, Cheryl VanSlake, Debbie Canatales and Diane De’Amora; nephew, John Robinson; and special friends, Nellie Garnsey, Colleen Carlson, Hope Mahady, Liz Chandler and Rick Papa. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Shari L.; parents, John and Gertrude Robinson; brother, John (Joyce) Robinson; and in-laws, William and Ethel Okusko and Jack and Joan Magee.

In keeping with her wishes there will be private calling hours for the family and no funeral services. Private burial will be at a later date in New Forest Cemetery, Utica, N.Y.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the American Cancer Society.