Mr. Anthony J. "Fuzzy" DeFazio

N. UTICA – With profound sadness, the family announces the peaceful passing of Anthony J. “Fuzzy” DeFazio, at age 81, on Saturday, November 25, 2023. His loving family was by his side. Born in Utica on June 26, 1942, Anthony was the son of the late Samuel “Sam” and Theresa (LoPiccolo) DeFazio. Raised and educated locally, he was a proud graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. Anthony's life was marked by dedication and service, but above all, by the love he shared with his family and friends. On September 28, 1963, Anthony married the former Marilyn J. Cavallaro, beginning a journey of love and companionship that would enrich their lives for many years. Together they shared a loving, blessed relationship filled with many beautiful memories, celebrating their 60th anniversary this September. On January 2, 2024 Marilyn passed away and their love and affinity reunited them. Anthony's professional life was equally impressive, holding a 30-year position at Dodge Graphic Press, from which he retired from a supervisory role. He was a proud member of Graphic Communications International Union. His work ethic was unparalleled, but it was his family and their well-being that truly made him happy. He felt incredibly lucky to have his family and friends, offering them love and compassion in abundance. A man of many passions, Anthony's love of music began as a dream at the age of 12 and he was in a band by the age of 15 as a drummer. He played with many local bands and was also a member of the Local 51 Musician's Union. Through the years he shared his talent with various groups and musicians. His enthusiasm for music was matched by his passion for automobiles. Anthony also enjoyed traveling to be with his family in Charlotte, NC and was an avid follower of NY sports teams, especially the Bills, Yankees, and Syracuse Orange. Anthony was wholeheartedly devoted to his family; their well-being was his greatest joy and happiness. He considered himself incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by his loving family, very special neighbors, and friends. His love and compassion knew no bounds and he was mostly fond of his cherished grandchildren, who were the lights of his life. As a true patriarch, Anthony had a unique gift of making everyone feel special. His presence brought positive energy to any room and he consistently found the good in everything and everyone. His legacy of unwavering positivity and love continues to inspire his family and all who knew him. Anthony's spirituality was deeply connected to his faith. He was a long-standing member of Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, where he found great solace and community. Anthony is survived by his children and their loves, Lisa M. and Frank J. Nanna, and Anthony S. and Cynthia Pensiero-DeFazio, his adored grandchildren, Francesca M. Nanna, and Christian A. Nanna; twins Riya N. and Anthony J. DeFazio; and Arianna R. Pensiero. He leaves his memory to his siblings, Marie and her late husband Louis Sirianni, Roseanne and Charles Coupe, and Richard DeFazio, and his late wife Jacqueline. He remembered fondly his brothers who preceded him, Phillip DeFazio and his wife Loretta, and Samuel DeFazio. The family extends heartfelt thanks to those that checked on the family daily while he was at the hospital as well as the nurses and doctors at Wynn Hospital for their loving care and compassion. Visitation for both Anthony and Marilyn will be held on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing, memorial contributions in Anthony’s name may be made to New Hope, c/o Big Apple Music, 8441 Seneca Turnpike, Suite E, New Hartford, NY 13413; any donations will be used to refurbish musical instruments and to assist children in being introduced to the world of music; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Anthony and Marilyn’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum.

Mr. Anthony J. "Fuzzy" DeFazio

June 26, 1942 - November 25, 2023