Mr. Tony Rogers Maggio, Sr.

Mr. Tony Rogers Maggio, Sr., age 49, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 5, 2015 at Upstate Medical University Hospital. At the time of his passing, he was in the hearts of those he loved most. Born in Utica on July 2, 1966, Tony was the son of the late John A. and Jeanette G. (Schafer) Maggio. He was raised and educated in Titusville, Florida and relocated to Utica in 1986. In 1990 he married the former Melissa Tartaglia, a union of 30 years which brought them the blessing of three children and a longtime friendship. Tony entered into a second union with Dina Palladino who is the mother of his second daughter. Tony was also a father figure to Dina’s son which beautifully blended the two families. In 1993, Tony began his working career as a Mail Carrier with the United States Postal Service, servicing the Genesee Street route. Currently, he held a position as a Mail Handler at the Pitcher Street Post Office. Tony was an outgoing gentleman, graced with the art of conversation. He had an acclaimed ability as a jokester, but don’t dare try to retaliate for you may see a different side of Tony! Tony’s heart belonged to his family. As the patriarch, he was a good dad and a great provider. He shared his wisdom and was always there to support and protect his children. He was a hard worker from a young age and when his illness became a part of his life, it did not deter him from his duties; his strong work ethic enhanced his character and prevailed till the end. Tony was proud of each of his children and was grateful that he was able to guide them and make them feel loved. In looking back, for all that may have been only a glimmer in his youth, he gained in fatherhood. He followed the sporting events of his kids and actively participated, along with his brother-in-law Anthony, in coaching Little League and Minor League baseball teams at the Addison Miller Park Baseball Field in West Utica. Tony also took to boys’ toys and he had a fascination with speed with his motorcycles, boats, and cars. Inspired by the infallible nature of his hero, Captain America, Tony strived to live his life at the peak of human efficiency. Physical fitness and wellbeing was an important part of his lifestyle and to maintain it he worked out regularly at the Fitness Mill and Planet Fitness. He was a fan of the NFL’s Detroit Lions. During Tony’s diagnosis and treatment regimens he found comfort in the Lord and his Catholic faith that he practiced at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Tony is survived by his five children, Tony Rogers Maggio Jr., Joey Maggio and Kristie Nitti, Gianna Maggio; and their mother, Melissa; his daughter, Alexa Maggio, and step-son Jalen Palladino; and their mother, Dina. He will also be remembered by his sisters and brother-in-law, Maureen Aceto of FL, and Christine and Frank Yacco of CA; his brother and sister-in-law, Louis and Charlene Long of CA; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles; in-laws, Joseph and Lorraine Tartaglia with whom he had a great relationship, love, and respect; and his cherished friend, Chris Sebastian who was a great inspiration to Tony. He was predeceased by his sister, Louise A. “Poopsie” Long in 1998; and his Nonny, Jo Tartaglia, who took care of him during his illness, and who he loved as his own grandmother. The family is grateful to the Strong Memorial Cancer Center staff members who were hospitable and kind; and Tony’s physicians, Dr. Fayez Chahfe and Dr. Manzurul Sikder for the compassionate support they provided to Tony. Visitation will be held Friday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Tony’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday morning at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Fr. Abe Esper. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Tony Rogers Maggio, Sr.

July 2, 1966 - July 5, 2015