William Groszewski Relation to Deceased: Friend Tony lived in the same Apartment building as my mother and father. He was a great help to them. So sorry to learn of his passing. He will be remembered.
Vinnie J Plumeri Relation to Deceased: Friend/Compare Anthony my buddy, without a doubt the wittiest, clever and most kind friend anyone could ask for. You are always in my prayers and I right now I just can’t stop thinking about you and all times we shared. May the Lord keep you with him forever. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Valerie randolph Tony although I only new you for a short while you brightened up my life. I had just begun working at the Legacy and things were pretty tuff being the new kid at work but I will never forget how kind and funny you were. Thank you for you your jokes and laughter that made my bad days good. And for trying to convert me to be a Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Although it did not work, I still have the magnet and hat you gave me displayed. You are truly missed but forever remembered! The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Tom (Iac) Iacubucci Relation to Deceased: Life long friend Anthony, 50 years of friendship. So many memories. I truly don’t know where to begin. The moments and events race through my mind and tend to connect in a swell of emotion. I will forever cherish all of them……You where and always will be so much more than a friend. You are my brother. You always had the ability ( and the face) to make me and everyone around you laugh…….a true gift that comforted my soul and for which I will be eternally grateful. Anthony, I love you and will miss you. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers. The day will come when we will again be together …… but until that day I say, as I said to you your last day with us on this earth…..Ti amo il mio amico, arrivederci. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Tina Harrigan Relation to Deceased: Cousin To all of my dear”Reggie” Family.. So many wonderful memories of Anthony. He was more like a brother to me then a cousin. I wish I could be with all of you to celebrate his life. He never missed calling me on Christmas day and I will so miss that call this year. He never failed to make me laugh no matter what the circumstances where. He’s joined “our beloved ” departed family forever and I can just picture the celebration they are all having ! All my love to all of you. Tina The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Terry Metivier (Montreal) Relation to Deceased: Cousin One of my favorites memories was the time I came to Rochester and was visiting my grandma. Anthony came over and picked me up so I could going riding in his yellow corvette. I thought it was great. He took me for my first white hot. Then we went riding and visiting family. I had a great time. He was always nice to me. My dad, mom and family loved him and our thoughts and prayers are with you all. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Sebastian D’Angelo Relation to Deceased: friend Hey Tony, We all missed you at the 40th reunion recently. I am so glad that I came to the Legacy in October to see you and how you welcomed me and my brother in law Dom. It was great talking about the old times. Rest in peace buddy. Everybody loves you The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
RON DONATO Relation to Deceased: FRIEND,WORKED WITH I WAS VERY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT TONY’S PASSING. HE WAS ALWAYS A HAPPY GO LUCKY GUY. TONY WAS ALWAYS SUPPORTIVE OF HIS FELLOW UNION BROTHERS AND SISTERS. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO ANTHONY AND HIS FAMILY. MAY GOD BLESS HIM. SINCERLY, RON DONATO The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Ray Finocchio Relation to Deceased: Friend Tony had the most memorable service at St Lawrence that reflected the love he had for family and friends. To hear the Who playing in the church”Love rain on me” was so touching and fitting for my dear friend. I am sure he was smiling down on all of us and all I could think about were the great times we had together. I hope all will remember what he would say to us in any trying sutuation we may have in our own lives especially in troubled times. He was never judgemental and truely loved his friends and family. Hopefully we can all take a piece of his wisdom and love with us. God bless and be with all who knew and loved him. Rayfinocchio@yahoo.com The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Ray Finocchio Relation to Deceased: Friend Tony had the most memorable service at St Lawrence that reflected the love he had for family and friends. To hear the Who playing in the church”Love rain on me” was so touching and fitting for my dear friend. I am sure he was smiling down on all of us and all I could think about were the great times we had together. I hope all will remember what he would sat to us in any trying sutuation we may have in our own lives especially in troubled times. He was never judgemental and truely loved his friends and family. Hopefully we can all take a piece of his wisdom and love with us. God bless and be with all who knew and loved him. Rayfinocchio@yahoo.com Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on, and cherished memories never fade because a loved one’s gone. Those we love can never be more than a thought apart, far as long as there is memory, they’ll live on in the heart.
Maryfran Yockel Relation to Deceased: Friend Tony, there is no one else like you and I am truly blessed to have known you. Your gifts of laughter, telling a story, your courage and sharing your fears are all life lessons I will hold close to my heart. Till we meet again. I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one, I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days. I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun. Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.
Lynda Bennett (Cubiotti) Relation to Deceased: Long time Friend Tony, My very first memory of you is when I first met you at Guys & Dolls, which was a dance club we went to when we were about 14. You walked in and you just lit up the room with laughter and jokes. Everyone always gravitated to you. You had that kind of personality. I will miss you Tony and will always love you, one of my oldest and dearest friend The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Lorraine Polatas Relation to Deceased: Friend I,m so sorry Diane,Maryann and Joanne for your lost. Tony was a really nice guy and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. I,ll keep him in my prayers as i do your mom and dad. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Judy Viccaro I will never forget the great times we had at Delco. Going for steamed clams at 3:00 A.M. with Cathy and Sam. All the laughs and your smile!! Rest in peace Tony. You will be truly missed. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Johnny (little John) Fernandes You were my Confirmation Sponsor but you were much more, a man I will always admire. So many memories of you fill my mind right now and the impression that you left on others is what really stands out. Here is the story that you loved to listen to and wanted me to tell just about everytime we saw each other in recent years. When I was at MCC I took an acting class with a Professor named Dave Smith. I learned that Anthony took the same class with the same Professor some 20 years earlier. Smith was one of these stern, very serious guys who never seemed to laugh, I learned this pretty quick after becoming one of his ‘Premier Players’ doing 3 plays under his direction. Smith was also superstisious and he would never ever come down to the dressing rooms before a performance. Well Anthony came to see me when I was in ‘Brighton Beach Memoirs’ now before the show the cast was very nervous as we were about 15 minutes from show time when we hear these footsteps pounding down the stairs accompanied with Smith yelling my name “Fernandes, Where’s Fernandes!!!!” Everyone was silent and I was like ‘what did I do know’ I asked “what’s wrong?” Glaring at me Smith says “I’ll tell ya what’s wrong, you never told me you knew Tony Distafano!” Now to let ya know how memorable Anthony was, I went back to MCC in 1995, only 4 years after I left there and Dave Smith did Not remember me I had to tell him who I was. I also reminded him that I was Anthony’s cousin and he says “Oh how is Tony anyway?, i’ll never forget that kid” The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
john fernandez Relation to Deceased: BFF Ant, you were always the guy that brought laughter in room, busting everybodies chops, mostly mine with your quick witted humor. (I always wondered how you could think those things up so fast!) You always got the last word in, I could’nt think as fast as you, not many people could, It made for a great team, of course you were the funny guy ,I was the straight man, but I loved you, and I will always cherish your friendship forever, you were like a brother to me, saying goodbye to you is ine of the hardest things i’ve ever had to do. I miss you already pali. Your friend forever John The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Joann Marianetti Relation to Deceased: friend thanks for the memories going way back to Otis and Villa St, JP Riley, and of course Delco. Many years being friends, many wonderful and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime in my heart. To Anthony’s family my deepest sympathy…..his light will always shine in everyone’s heart. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Georgina Vaccarella (Bonacci) This is so very, very sad to hear. Looking at the photo gallery brings back bittersweet memories of a better time. Anthony, whenever “bocce balls” comes up in conversation, I always think of you and smile! The Class of ’69 has lost the best! My sincere sympathy to Anthony’s family and friends. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Gary J Phelan Relation to Deceased: Friend & Co-worker Tony, You were too young and too kind to be taken so soon. I’ll remember the seriousness and passion with which you pursued life. You had a great smile, sense of humor and empathy for others. You were always a reasonable, approachable guy. We at Delco, ITT, Valeo loved you dearly. I can’t believe you’re gone. I want your family to know that your co-workers admired, respected and in many cases loved you very much. Goodbye friend. May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of His hand. An Old Irish Blessing
ED HILLIER Relation to Deceased: FRIEND TONY I’M TAKING THIS REAL HARD BECAUSE YOU WERE THE BEST. DONT GET THROWN OUT OF HEAVEN TILL WE GET THERE. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Don Giannone Relation to Deceased: friend remembering Jefferson High School, Al’s Stand, J.P.Riley, Villa St.,Smitty’s,The Who,yellow VW, Taurus, KFC, Brockport & to many more , love ya T. Miss you…see you in the next world. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Domnika Ruggeri Always a sparkling smile, always an interesting story to share and many joyful times at family get-togethers. Anthony’s kindness will always be remembered. With deepest sympathy, our prayers and thoughts are with you. May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of His hand. An Old Irish Blessing
christina zampatori Relation to Deceased: niece Uncle Baseball we will miss you…your smile, laughter and breaking everyone’s chops brought such a greatness to our lives!!!! No one did it better than you Unc!! I know that my mom and Gram and Gramps are so happy to be with you again… I love you Uncle Ant!!!! Greest The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Bruce A Ricigliano Relation to Deceased: Cousin Grandma’s Cherry Tree was our safe haven together now Heaven is yours. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Bruce A Ricigliano Relation to Deceased: 1st Cousin As I look back we had many wonderful times together, walking to Al’s Stand for Ice Cream we always seemed to get in trouble together, especially at Grandma’s house. We were always safe in the cherry tree, It will be hard to say goodbye because we were so close, The Lord needs a good drummer and a right fielder, you will always be in our hearts. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Additional Tribute Link: http://youtu.be/ABIaVoWjM3g
William Groszewski Relation to Deceased: Friend Tony lived in the same Apartment building as my mother and father. He was a great help to them. So sorry to learn of his passing. He will be remembered.
Vinnie J Plumeri Relation to Deceased: Friend/Compare Anthony my buddy, without a doubt the wittiest, clever and most kind friend anyone could ask for. You are always in my prayers and I right now I just can’t stop thinking about you and all times we shared. May the Lord keep you with him forever. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Valerie randolph Tony although I only new you for a short while you brightened up my life. I had just begun working at the Legacy and things were pretty tuff being the new kid at work but I will never forget how kind and funny you were. Thank you for you your jokes and laughter that made my bad days good. And for trying to convert me to be a Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Although it did not work, I still have the magnet and hat you gave me displayed. You are truly missed but forever remembered! The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Tom (Iac) Iacubucci Relation to Deceased: Life long friend Anthony, 50 years of friendship. So many memories. I truly don’t know where to begin. The moments and events race through my mind and tend to connect in a swell of emotion. I will forever cherish all of them……You where and always will be so much more than a friend. You are my brother. You always had the ability ( and the face) to make me and everyone around you laugh…….a true gift that comforted my soul and for which I will be eternally grateful. Anthony, I love you and will miss you. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers. The day will come when we will again be together …… but until that day I say, as I said to you your last day with us on this earth…..Ti amo il mio amico, arrivederci. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Tina Harrigan Relation to Deceased: Cousin To all of my dear”Reggie” Family.. So many wonderful memories of Anthony. He was more like a brother to me then a cousin. I wish I could be with all of you to celebrate his life. He never missed calling me on Christmas day and I will so miss that call this year. He never failed to make me laugh no matter what the circumstances where. He’s joined “our beloved ” departed family forever and I can just picture the celebration they are all having ! All my love to all of you. Tina The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Terry Metivier (Montreal) Relation to Deceased: Cousin One of my favorites memories was the time I came to Rochester and was visiting my grandma. Anthony came over and picked me up so I could going riding in his yellow corvette. I thought it was great. He took me for my first white hot. Then we went riding and visiting family. I had a great time. He was always nice to me. My dad, mom and family loved him and our thoughts and prayers are with you all. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Sebastian D’Angelo Relation to Deceased: friend Hey Tony, We all missed you at the 40th reunion recently. I am so glad that I came to the Legacy in October to see you and how you welcomed me and my brother in law Dom. It was great talking about the old times. Rest in peace buddy. Everybody loves you The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
RON DONATO Relation to Deceased: FRIEND,WORKED WITH I WAS VERY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT TONY’S PASSING. HE WAS ALWAYS A HAPPY GO LUCKY GUY. TONY WAS ALWAYS SUPPORTIVE OF HIS FELLOW UNION BROTHERS AND SISTERS. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO ANTHONY AND HIS FAMILY. MAY GOD BLESS HIM. SINCERLY, RON DONATO The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Ray Finocchio Relation to Deceased: Friend Tony had the most memorable service at St Lawrence that reflected the love he had for family and friends. To hear the Who playing in the church”Love rain on me” was so touching and fitting for my dear friend. I am sure he was smiling down on all of us and all I could think about were the great times we had together. I hope all will remember what he would say to us in any trying sutuation we may have in our own lives especially in troubled times. He was never judgemental and truely loved his friends and family. Hopefully we can all take a piece of his wisdom and love with us. God bless and be with all who knew and loved him. Rayfinocchio@yahoo.com The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Ray Finocchio Relation to Deceased: Friend Tony had the most memorable service at St Lawrence that reflected the love he had for family and friends. To hear the Who playing in the church”Love rain on me” was so touching and fitting for my dear friend. I am sure he was smiling down on all of us and all I could think about were the great times we had together. I hope all will remember what he would sat to us in any trying sutuation we may have in our own lives especially in troubled times. He was never judgemental and truely loved his friends and family. Hopefully we can all take a piece of his wisdom and love with us. God bless and be with all who knew and loved him. Rayfinocchio@yahoo.com Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on, and cherished memories never fade because a loved one’s gone. Those we love can never be more than a thought apart, far as long as there is memory, they’ll live on in the heart.
Maryfran Yockel Relation to Deceased: Friend Tony, there is no one else like you and I am truly blessed to have known you. Your gifts of laughter, telling a story, your courage and sharing your fears are all life lessons I will hold close to my heart. Till we meet again. I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one, I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days. I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun. Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.
Lynda Bennett (Cubiotti) Relation to Deceased: Long time Friend Tony, My very first memory of you is when I first met you at Guys & Dolls, which was a dance club we went to when we were about 14. You walked in and you just lit up the room with laughter and jokes. Everyone always gravitated to you. You had that kind of personality. I will miss you Tony and will always love you, one of my oldest and dearest friend The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Lorraine Polatas Relation to Deceased: Friend I,m so sorry Diane,Maryann and Joanne for your lost. Tony was a really nice guy and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. I,ll keep him in my prayers as i do your mom and dad. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Judy Viccaro I will never forget the great times we had at Delco. Going for steamed clams at 3:00 A.M. with Cathy and Sam. All the laughs and your smile!! Rest in peace Tony. You will be truly missed. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Johnny (little John) Fernandes You were my Confirmation Sponsor but you were much more, a man I will always admire. So many memories of you fill my mind right now and the impression that you left on others is what really stands out. Here is the story that you loved to listen to and wanted me to tell just about everytime we saw each other in recent years. When I was at MCC I took an acting class with a Professor named Dave Smith. I learned that Anthony took the same class with the same Professor some 20 years earlier. Smith was one of these stern, very serious guys who never seemed to laugh, I learned this pretty quick after becoming one of his ‘Premier Players’ doing 3 plays under his direction. Smith was also superstisious and he would never ever come down to the dressing rooms before a performance. Well Anthony came to see me when I was in ‘Brighton Beach Memoirs’ now before the show the cast was very nervous as we were about 15 minutes from show time when we hear these footsteps pounding down the stairs accompanied with Smith yelling my name “Fernandes, Where’s Fernandes!!!!” Everyone was silent and I was like ‘what did I do know’ I asked “what’s wrong?” Glaring at me Smith says “I’ll tell ya what’s wrong, you never told me you knew Tony Distafano!” Now to let ya know how memorable Anthony was, I went back to MCC in 1995, only 4 years after I left there and Dave Smith did Not remember me I had to tell him who I was. I also reminded him that I was Anthony’s cousin and he says “Oh how is Tony anyway?, i’ll never forget that kid” The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
john fernandez Relation to Deceased: BFF Ant, you were always the guy that brought laughter in room, busting everybodies chops, mostly mine with your quick witted humor. (I always wondered how you could think those things up so fast!) You always got the last word in, I could’nt think as fast as you, not many people could, It made for a great team, of course you were the funny guy ,I was the straight man, but I loved you, and I will always cherish your friendship forever, you were like a brother to me, saying goodbye to you is ine of the hardest things i’ve ever had to do. I miss you already pali. Your friend forever John The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Joann Marianetti Relation to Deceased: friend thanks for the memories going way back to Otis and Villa St, JP Riley, and of course Delco. Many years being friends, many wonderful and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime in my heart. To Anthony’s family my deepest sympathy…..his light will always shine in everyone’s heart. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Georgina Vaccarella (Bonacci) This is so very, very sad to hear. Looking at the photo gallery brings back bittersweet memories of a better time. Anthony, whenever “bocce balls” comes up in conversation, I always think of you and smile! The Class of ’69 has lost the best! My sincere sympathy to Anthony’s family and friends. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Gary J Phelan Relation to Deceased: Friend & Co-worker Tony, You were too young and too kind to be taken so soon. I’ll remember the seriousness and passion with which you pursued life. You had a great smile, sense of humor and empathy for others. You were always a reasonable, approachable guy. We at Delco, ITT, Valeo loved you dearly. I can’t believe you’re gone. I want your family to know that your co-workers admired, respected and in many cases loved you very much. Goodbye friend. May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of His hand. An Old Irish Blessing
ED HILLIER Relation to Deceased: FRIEND TONY I’M TAKING THIS REAL HARD BECAUSE YOU WERE THE BEST. DONT GET THROWN OUT OF HEAVEN TILL WE GET THERE. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Don Giannone Relation to Deceased: friend remembering Jefferson High School, Al’s Stand, J.P.Riley, Villa St.,Smitty’s,The Who,yellow VW, Taurus, KFC, Brockport & to many more , love ya T. Miss you…see you in the next world. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Domnika Ruggeri Always a sparkling smile, always an interesting story to share and many joyful times at family get-togethers. Anthony’s kindness will always be remembered. With deepest sympathy, our prayers and thoughts are with you. May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of His hand. An Old Irish Blessing
christina zampatori Relation to Deceased: niece Uncle Baseball we will miss you…your smile, laughter and breaking everyone’s chops brought such a greatness to our lives!!!! No one did it better than you Unc!! I know that my mom and Gram and Gramps are so happy to be with you again… I love you Uncle Ant!!!! Greest The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Bruce A Ricigliano Relation to Deceased: Cousin Grandma’s Cherry Tree was our safe haven together now Heaven is yours. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Bruce A Ricigliano Relation to Deceased: 1st Cousin As I look back we had many wonderful times together, walking to Al’s Stand for Ice Cream we always seemed to get in trouble together, especially at Grandma’s house. We were always safe in the cherry tree, It will be hard to say goodbye because we were so close, The Lord needs a good drummer and a right fielder, you will always be in our hearts. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips