Mr. Antonio "Tony" Nistico

UTICA – Mr. Antonio “Tony” Nistico, age 78, passed away on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in the comfort and dignity of his home. While he battled cancer, his family cared for him, and were by his side to the very end of his journey. Born in Cropani, Province of Catanzaro, Italy on August 3, 1945, Tony was the son of the late Vincenzo and Maria (Marchio) Nistico. His family immigrated to the United States in 1958, where Tony attended Brandegee Grammar School and Utica Free Academy. In 1966 he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving in Vietnam. Due to his great dedication, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnamese Service Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Good Conduct Ribbon. Tony was honorably discharged as a corporal on June 28, 1972. Upon returning home to Utica, Tony began working for various construction companies. His main vocation had been his position with the New York State Canal System. Tony wed the love of his life, the former Carmela “Lena” Mercurio on August 5, 1978, a blessed union of 46 years. As a couple they cared for one another with great concern, and they were each other’s confidants. As a dad, Tony provided for his family with great pride. He was a hard worker and instilled that same work ethic in his children. He always wanted them to understand the need to prepare for those “rainy days.” His personality was one that allowed him to always be concerned about the needs of his entire family. He was the go-to man for any loved one or friend in need. Some of the best family memories were made on trips returning to Tony and Lena’s native towns in Italy. In true Italian fashion, they were always welcomed with great hospitality. Tony extended this same warm reception to anyone who came to visit him. Family and friends alike were always met with a cup of espresso and a lively conversation. In Tony and Lena’s house, stories were told, and memories were made. One of Tony’s favorite pastimes was horse racing. He was a good handicapper but a conservative spender! He also enjoyed playing cards at the joint and the camaraderie of the gang. A member of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, he was of the generation who gave of their time and talent to physically build this sacred dwelling. Tony is survived by his beloved wife, Lena; his two daughters and sons-in-law who so blessed his life, Maria and Daniel Post (Daniel and Tony shared a true father and son relationship), and Filomena and Joshua Blystone; and cherished grandchildren, Ava Post (who was his number one), Talia Post; and Nora Blystone. He also leaves his memory to his sister, Ada Loprete (the late Giuseppe “Joe” Loprete); and his brother and sister-in-law, Frank and Cynthia Nistico. He fondly remembered his siblings and sister-in-law who preceded him, Alfredo “Freddy” Nistico, Giuseppe “Joseph” and Caterina Nistico, and Margherita Manoiero and her husband. His loss is also felt by a host of nieces and nephews; he always remembered his nephew, Joseph Loprete, Jr., who preceded him; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, and many friends who reside locally as well as in Italy. Tony loved his dogs – they were a part of the family. First was his miniature poodle, Rusty, who passed last year. He also truly appreciated the companionship of Gio, his German shepherd mix, who is going to miss Tony greatly. Carmela and her loved ones would like to extend their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from his family and friends, especially acknowledging his niece, Sara Stewart, his nephews, Vincent Nistico, and Luigi Mercurio, his dear friend, John Pedulla, and his caretaker, Steve Richards. It was through the dedication of his oncologist, Dr. Alicia DeTraglia, the nurses and staff of the Regional Cancer Center, the caregivers of the Lutheran Home and the Charles T. Sitrin Health Care Center, as well the staff of 7 West at Wynn Hospital, that Tony’s medical needs were tended to with great care and sincerity. In reflection of Tony’s true personality, when he was being treated during his illness, he would often shout out “what are all these words?!” He was then graciously comforted by his daughter Maria, who took the time to explain the information being presented to him. The family will honor and commemorate his life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Antonio’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Monday, June 17, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St. Military honors will be conferred by the U.S. Marine Corps and there will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of the service. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Tony’s honor may be made to Feed Our Vets online at www.feedourvets.org/donate, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at www.stjude.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service. Entombment will follow in Calvary Mausoleum at Calvary Cemetery. “Semper Fidelis, for I was, and will forever be, a United States Marine.”

Mr. Antonio "Tony" Nistico

August 3, 1945 - June 11, 2024