NEW HARTFORD — F. Eugene Romano, local philanthropist and founder of several companies throughout Utica and the Mohawk Valley, has passed away at the age of 94.

Throughout his life, Romano left a legacy of becoming a financial contributor to the area and aiding in the economic development of the region by establishing and running local companies Pacemaker Steel and Piping Company, The Fountainhead Group and Special Metals Corporation, among others.

Romano passed away on Saturday, Jan 7.

In a statement released by Pacemaker Steel and Piping Company, now run by his daughter Linda Romano, officials with the company said “Mr. Romano loved Utica and the Mohawk Valley and worked diligently to stimulate the economy and professional atmosphere in our area. Consistent with his belief that education is the key to any strong community, he established numerous scholarships at local institutions to provide financial support for students who demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to this area that he loved.”

In addition to establishing and running local companies, Romano also donated significant sums of money to Hamilton College and Utica University, giving an endowment of $1 million to Hamilton College in the form of scholarships and becoming only one of two people who have donated over $5 million to Utica University. Romano was also a major benefactor to local charities and organizations.

in 2015, Romano became the subject of a book titled “F. Eugene Romano: Doing it His Way,” by Malio J. Cardarelli, which focuses on Romano’s upbringing and his life in Utica.

“Mr. Romano is a man of many great achievements in life, but the one that strikes me the most is his dedication to giving back to the community that he called home,” said Alicia Fernandez Dicks, president/CEO of the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, one of the numerous organizations that Romano financially contributed to. “He is a shining example for all and we’re very grateful that the two funds he established with us will continue to live out his legacy and generosity, supporting students and the work of local nonprofits for many years to come.”

Visitation is scheduled to be at Mary Mother of our Saviour (Church of Our Lady of Lourdes), 2222 Genesee St. in Utica, on Monday, Jan. 16 from 10 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., with funeral mass immediately following at 1:00 p.m.