Mr. Anthony J. Miller

Mr. Anthony J. Miller, age 91, passed peacefully into the arms of his loved ones and his Lord on Friday, October 4, 2013 at the Masonic Care Community of NY. Born in Utica on June 9, 1922, Anthony was the son of the late Benny and Josephine (Damanda) Miller. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1939. A proud veteran of the United States Army Airborne Unit and later transferring to the United States Army Air Corps, Anthony honorably served his country during World War II as a Flight Engineer and Top Turret Gunner aboard a B-17 in the European Theater of Operations. July 4, 1946 marked a memorable day in Anthony’s life. He was wed to the former Rosalie “Rose” Graziano. They were a couple that were very much in love, and were partners in their marriage, parenting, and their business endeavors. His beloved Rose passed away on March 20, 2008 after celebrating 61 years of marriage. Along with his wife Rose they carried on the tradition of Graziano's Furniture Store located on the corner of Bleecker and Mohawk Streets which served the community for decades. They complimented one another in their “second home” and their team work was unparalleled. They never considered it work, for they treated their customers as family, and took pride in serving the community. He was truly a loving family man and always put the needs of his family first. He had a huge heart and loved his daughter unconditionally, and they had a bond that was unbreakable. Upon the untimely passing of his son-in-law, he graciously became a father figure to his grandchildren in so many ways. They knew him as Poppy and he and Rose helped to nurture their grandchildren in every way possible. They never missed a game, an activity, or monumental moments in their lives. It was also not uncommon to have their friends affectionately refer to him as Poppy as well. A new gleam in his eye was apparent as his great grandchildren blessed his life and he appreciated the innocence of their years. For those who knew Anthony, you knew he was a conversationalist, a knowledgeable man, one blessed with kindness, and a generous spirit. He was one of a kind and had a unique sense of humor, but what most will remember best was his genuine concern for the well-being of others in his life. He was fortunate enough to have a great faith which guided him, and he put much decision making into the trust of the Lord. He was a coin collector, and a true Lionel Train enthusiast. He was a past member of the Tau Phi Zeta fraternity, the Nocturnal Adoration Society, the Knights of Columbus, and former president of the Mohawk Valley Furniture Association. He practiced his faith at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish as well as St. George's. Anthony is survived by his beloved daughter, Joanne DePaul Wargo; his cherished grandchildren, Alaina Mazza, and Joseph A. and Jennifer (Circelli) DePaul; his adored great-grandchildren, Alyssa, Dana, and Nicholas Mazza; Alexis Rose, Joseph S., and Daniel DePaul. Also left to honor his memory are his brother-in-law Cosmo Curri, his nieces, and nephews, James and Helen Pugliese, Larry and Sandra Pugliese, Lee and Elaine (Curri) Lowell, Charles “Chuck” (who is also his godson) and Lorraine Curri, Jim and Andrea (Curri) Smith, Mark and Connie Curri; several great nieces, great nephews; cousins, especially acknowledging Lorretta Szczygiel and her husband Steve; and his godson, Vincent Mastracco and his wife Eileen. He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Joseph S. DePaul; his in-laws, Phillip Graziano, Ann Pugliese, and Josephine “Babs” Curri; and family friend Jackie Schafer. The family accords great appreciation to the entire staff of the Masonic Care Community of NY with mention of Valarie Yager, NP, and all those of Buffalo Household who offered genuine and compassionate care to “Poppy”. Their heartfelt affection for Anthony was very evident and his family was most comforted. The family will honor and commemorate his life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday at 12:00 noon 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. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. He will be laid to rest alongside his wife in Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Anthony J. Miller

June 9, 1922 - October 4, 2013