Anthony A. Iannone,Sr.

Anthony A. “Tony” Iannone, Sr., age 64, a native of Utica, and resident of New Hartford, passed away on Friday, February 03, 2012 at the Siegenthaler Center with his family by his side, surrounded by the love and support of their blessings. Tony was born in Utica on April 24, 1947, the son of Anna E. (DiFondi) Iannone and the late Edward P. Iannone, Sr. Raised and educated locally, he graduated from T.R. Proctor High School, Class of 1966, and continued on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Utica College. Throughout his career, Tony proved himself to be a master accountant. A reliable and hard-working agent, he built a 35 year career with the IRS, retiring from the position of Manager of the New York State Employment Benefits Division. At one time, Tony was married to Marie (Barbero) Iannone, a relationship from which came three beautiful children. On July 15, 2005, he married the former Linda Synakowski, who became not only his wife, but his best friend. Tony was a dignified man with strong family ties. A generous and loving father, Tony believed his greatest legacy was his children. He was justly proud of their accomplishments, and in each of them instilled a strong work ethic, high moral standards, and the ability to persevere. People of all walks of life were drawn to Tony; and many of his friendships were those which he cultivated and cherished for decades. One of Tony’s greatest pleasures was traveling with his wife, Linda, with whom he shared a marriage filled with love, laughter, and friendship. Together, the couple also worked within the community for many important causes. Tony was very dedicated to Central New York‘s Heart Run and Walk, and regularly volunteered for the annual Utica Boiler Maker Road Race. A member of the Cedar Lake Country Club, he was an athletic man who played golf, ran marathons, and loved working out in the gym with his wife. He was also an avid gardener who took great pride in his home grown tomatoes, sweet basil, garlic, and the lovely cedar trees which he hand raised from saplings. He was deeply devoted to his Catholic faith, and developed a friendship with Father Paul Drobin, whom Tony held in high esteem. Tony is survived by his wife, Linda; his mother, Anna; two daughters and sons-in-law, Rhonda and Kurt Ruhm, of Apalachin, NY and Renee and David Cavan, of Canton, GA.; one son, Anthony Iannone, Jr., of Boston, MA; and the mother of his children, Marie Iannone, of Utica; four grandchildren, Carter Ruhm, Aidan Ruhm; Morgan Cavan and Avery Cavan. He also leaves his sister and brother-in-law, Lisa and Daniel Cieplenski, of NY Mills; his brothers, Edward P. Iannone, Jr., of Huntsville, AL; James M. and Alex Iannone, of Canal Winchester, OH, and Richard N. Iannone of Utica; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and in-laws, Leo and Judee Synakowski; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mary and John Ballard. He had many close friendships and bonds that he made and held tightly throughout his life. He was predeceased by his father-in-law, Leo Synakowski; and two uncles, Nicholas DiFondi and Mario DiFondi. He always cherished the memory of his grandmother, Gemma DiFondi. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Tony’s initial caregivers, Anthony, Emina, Mel, and his primary caregiver and friend, Dr. Kevin McCormick. Their compassion, support, and sincerity was truly inspirational. A heartfelt thank you is to be extended to the dedicated and empathetic staff of the Siegenthaler Center. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1-4 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Memorial contributions in Anthony’s memory, may be considered to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., The Alzheimer’s Association or to the Herkimer County Humane Society; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Tony’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday afternoon at 12:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Blessed Sacrament Parish, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno. Entombment will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Anthony A. Iannone,Sr.

April 24, 1947 - February 3, 2012