Mr. Anthony DiAndrea

Mr. Anthony DiAndrea, age 96, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 12, 2015 at the Masonic Care Community of NY with his devoted family by his side. Born in Utica on October 26, 1919, Anthony was the son of the late Giuseppe and Angeline (D’Ambrosio) DiAndrea. He was a graduate of Utica Free Academy/Class of 1937. As an adult as opportunities presented themselves he attended MVCC and was awarded an Associate’s Degree in liberal arts and he also participated in administrative courses at North Western University. A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, Tony honorably served his country as a radarman aboard the USS Sullivans in the South Pacific. On June 16, 1941 he was joined in marriage with the former Evelyn Duffy with whom he shared a union of 65 years prior to her passing on July 1, 2006. Anthony and Evelyn were truly devoted to one another and to the joys and responsibilities of family life. Tony began his career in the workplace in the employ of the DeOrio Bakery, was also a route salesman for Ward Baking Co. In 1948 he joined the Utica Police Department as a patrolman. Two years later he became a motor vehicle inspector for NY State where he served as a road-test examiner. It was not long before he was appointed supervisor of the department. In 1961, he earned a promotion to the position of principal examiner. Then in 1965 he was promoted to Assistant District Director of the Utica District Office. He was offered the position of Director of the Buffalo District Office, but he declined the appointment in order to remain in his native city of Utica. He was rightfully proud of the 6 major merit awards he received over the years for his inspiring leadership, his unique problem-solving skills, and his commendable professional contributions, including his many suggestions and efforts aimed at improving the quality of service offered to Uticans. When he retired in 1981, he brought to a close a rewarding 31-year career spent in the company and service of the good people of this community. He then went on to enjoy a second career as he took on the responsibilities of Program Projects Administrator and Chairman of the Utica Traffic Safety Board during Mayor LaPolla’s administration. He also served as Chairman of the Oneida County Traffic Safety Board. He then rounded off this phase of his professional life by accepting an appointment to be the Commissioner of the Utica Municipal Housing Authority, a position he filled for 8 years. Tony was an exemplary family man: he truly enjoyed his wife’s companionship, and he was an adoring father. He was well known and loved for his beautiful smile and was admired by all for his impeccable appearance. An avid fan of the NY Yankees, he made many trips to see them play. He was dedicated to helping the Utica community, not only in his career pursuits, but also as a member and active participant in many local civic, social, and service groups: he was a Republican committeeman in the former Ward 6, District 1; and was a candidate for City Councilman; he was a 25-year member of the Knights of Columbus; and he served as president for the Cornhill Youth Association as well as for the Nocturnal Adoration Society. He was a communicant of the Church of the Blessed Sacrament where he was a member of the Holy Name Society and of the Ushers Club, a group he once served as president. In 1988, Tony ventured into the world of communication via the internet and emailed his family and friends at a daily scheduled time! As he embraced his new home and new friends at the Masonic Care Community, he considered it a rebirth and adored those who looked after him. Anthony is survived by his cherished children, Maureen and Henry “Hank” Scarafile of Liverpool, and Joseph M. and Shirley DiAndrea of Utica; his beloved grandchildren, Christopher Scarafile and his wife Clare Brew of Brooklyn; Deborah and Patrick Hitchcock of Oriskany, Michael DiAndrea of Langhorn, PA, Darlene and Joseph Basi of Tampa, FL; and his adored great-grandchildren, Darwin Rose Scarafile; Zachary, and Allison Hitchcock; Ethan, Dylan, and Anthony DiAndrea; Joseph, Samantha, and Salvatore Basi. He is also survived by his sister, Theresa Martelli of Utica; and several nieces, nephews. He was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Louis J. and Margaret DiAndrea; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Laura and Frank Porter, and Cora and Dominick Coluccio; in-laws, Raymond F. Martelli, Josephine and Fred Nail, and Mary and Victor “Jack” Pacciarelli. After a long and well-lived life, Tony spent the past year at the Masonic Care Community of NY, and the Monticello Household was his second home. The staff was outstanding and compassionate as they shared much love and respect with Tony and considered him to be their angel and a true blessing. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Anthony’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Anthony’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta with Military Honors conferred by the United States Navy. Interment will take place alongside his wife in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Mr. Anthony DiAndrea

October 26, 1919 - November 12, 2015