Anthony Vittiglio died peacefully on August 12, 2018 at his home in Apex, North Carolina.
He was 97 years old.
Born on January 1, 1921, in Cassino, Italy, of Filomena D’Alessandro and Luigi Vittiglio, he was the eldest sibling of Mary Cardillo and Jenny Rizzi. He married Mary Varlese in December 1949, who died in an earlier year of cancer. Prior to her death, Anthony spent many happy years with her in their former family home on Reeder Place in Rockland County, New York.
Anthony worked as a licensed operating engineer for a New York construction company, and was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers. He later established a construction company of his own, Melvit Construction Corp., in which he served as president.
Anthony was also a proud veteran of the United States Army and was decorated for his military service during World War II, in which he took part in active duty in Europe. He was also decorated by the French Government for his role in the 95th Division’s liberation of the city of Metz, France, and was particularly honored to take part in the memorial ceremony in that city honoring 95th Division veterans, which was held on the anniversary of its liberation a few years ago. Anthony also looked forward to reconnecting with surviving veterans and their families at their Annual 95th Division Reunions held in various major cities throughout the states.
Anthony is survived by his wife, Tina Fazio, and his four daughters and their families: Diana and Magdy Elshenawy, Laura and Patrick Benvenuto, Joyce and Claudio Rodrigo, and Janet and Raul Tersy; his grandchildren: Tarek, Samara, and Mariam Elshenawy; Danielle and Patrick Benvenuto; Cristina Rodrigo and Alyssa Walsh; and Julia, Anthony, and Alex Tersy. Anthony is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Zoe and Roman.
A wake will be held on Friday, August 17, from 2:00-4:00 pm and 7:00-9:00 pm at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale, NJ 07647. Funeral services will take place at 11 am on Saturday, August 18, at St. Boniface RC Church, 5 Willow Tree Road, Wesley Hills, NY 10952 with interment to follow at Onderdonk Veterans Cemetery, Suffern, NY.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Cancer Society.
www.pizzifuneralhome.com
Tony will always be one of the most charming men I’ve ever met. His hello kisses, his delightful Italian accent, and his stories of his beloved Italy elevated him several steps above many men. He was so proud of his daughters, and they returned that love in spades. Most special of all, to me, is his standing among the ranks of the Iron Men of Metz, the most wonderful group of men I know. Shooting down an airplane with a BAR is an amazing feat – and he shot down two. Incredible! I love you, Tony, for forever!
Kay G
Please accept our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your dear father! I have fond memories of our families spending time together on Reeder Place and Maurice Lane. Here’s hoping our parents are reconnecting once again up in heaven! Sending love and hugs your way! Looking forward to getting together and catching up at some point! Best Wishes, Carolyn (Lynn Grigg) and Dave Zanoni