Mr. Anthony C. Poccia, UPD/Ret.

UTICA - Mr. Antony C. “Tony” Poccia, UPD/Ret., age 89, and a mere month prior to his 90th birthday, went home to the Lord and was reunited with his family when he passed away on Saturday, May 8, 2021 with his devoted loved ones in his heart. Born in Utica on June 8, 1931, Anthony was the son of the late Antonio and Alvera (Napoli) Poccia. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1950. A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, he honorably served his country during the Korean Conflict from 1952-1954 stationed with the 3rd Marine Air Wing in Quantico, Virginia as a Paratrooper. On July 3, 1954 he married the former Sara Internicola with whom he shared 31 years of a wonderful marriage and the greatest blessing of their daughter, Debbie. They were a perfect match and Tony always held close his love for Sara. They also shared an appreciation of antiques and the adventures of attending area shows. Sara passed away on March 29, 1985. Anthony dedicated 32 years to his career as a Police Officer with the Utica Police Department from July 1956 to April 1988 where he served as a Patrolman for 10 years and also worked in the Records & Identification Division prior to his retirement. He was so proud of his vocation and will be remembered as an officer of great integrity. Tony was a sensitive soul and a kind gentleman with a non-judgmental mindset and point of view. If you were a friend, you were blessed because he held you in his heart with high esteem. His daughter Debbie was the light of his life and he catered to all her needs with the love only a father can give. He was so proud of her and encouraged her in so many ways. Tony was a physically fit man, always aware of his wellness. He warmed up at the YMCA before running many miles along Genesee Street, his favorite run. He participated in the annual Falling Leaves Race and multiple Boilermaker Road Races. The Fitness Mill was a place for him to expand his physical training, and it was also a meeting place where old friends were reunited and new friends were found. Tony got a second chance at love when he met Jean (Macdonald-Wandle) Harlow. He introduced her to fine wine and dining. They traveled, at times with Debbie, to Lake George and to Clayton on the St. Lawrence River, a locale he never could visit without dining at O’Brien’s and walking the river walk. Boldt Castle in Heart Island, Alexandria Bay fascinated him with its vintage interiors and majestic formal gardens and grounds. But the greatest common denominator of their lives was Debbie, and having a wonderful time with each other! Tony was also an appraiser of precious gems, coins, and vintage articles, and he had an eye for outstanding paintings. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge #47 Free & Accepted Masons where he accomplished many goals within the organization for over 51 years; the ARC, Oneida-Lewis Chapter as one of the original supporters of the organization and also served on the Board of Directors for 35 years; a former member of the Ziyara Shriners, and the Sons of Italy Lodge #2054. Tony had an unassuming pride for serving his country as a United States Marine and for protecting his community as a member of the Utica Police Department. He was particularly proud of his association with The ARC, not only for the wellbeing of his daughter, but also for his advocacy of a house mate, a young man who needed love and guidance and for whom Tony had a special place in his heart. Tony was granted the gift of a strong and steadfast faith. Until recent years, he loved taking Debbie to Mass on Sundays, and coffee was a “must” after Mass at McDonalds on Mohawk Street. One of the most notable experiences in his life was when he partook in the Honor Flight for Veterans to Washington, DC in September 2018. He took in all of the monuments and sights, but the Korean War Veterans Memorial was especially touching to him. He had a memorable smile and good intentions; God made a special person when he created this good man’s soul. Anthony held close to his heart the memory of his beloved daughter, Deborah “Debbie” Poccia who passed away earlier this year on February 16, 2021. He is survived by his cherished friend of many years, Jean (Macdonald-Wandle) Harlow with whom he shared a loving relationship; and Jean’s family who adored Tony, including Timothy and Cindi Wandle and Tim’s daughters, Samantha, and Candice Wandle, and Tim’s step-sons, Ryan (Brittney) Cook, and Matthew (Ashley) Cook. He was blessed to have had the love of his niece, Cathy Devine; nephews, John Poccia Jr., and Silvio J. and Janice Zinicola; in-laws, Mary DellaGala, and Vita and Richard Gonyea; and his precious friends, Lori Tabor and her family, Terry and Cookie Dote, and Jean’s sister, MaryEllen (Macdonald) Ward, NP; all were so helpful and caring. Thank you for loving Tony! He was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Silvio Zinicola; brother and sister-in-law, John T. Sr. and Irene Poccia; nephew, Anthony Poccia; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Nicholas and Rose Internicola; in-laws, Anthony DellaGala, Nicholas Internicola Jr., and Joseph and Judith Internicola; and nephew-in-law, Michael Devine who passed on April 2, 2021. Visitation will be held Monday morning, May 17, 2021 from 10:00-11:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Anthony’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence at 11:00 at the funeral home. Members of the United States Marine Corps., Utica Police Department, and the Masonic Lodge #47 Free & Accepted Masons will be present throughout services to honor Anthony. Face masks covering your nose and mouth are required, and social distancing and contact tracing will be implemented. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Anthony’s name may be made to the Children’s Services of the ARC, Oneida-Lewis Chapter online at https://www.thearcolc.org/donations-foundation/ or by mail to 245 Genesee St., Utica, NY 13501 in gratitude for the services that this outstanding organization provides; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Entombment will follow in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. To my loyal Marine family… Semper Fidelis

Mr. Anthony C. Poccia, UPD/Ret.

June 8, 1931 - May 8, 2021