Patrick H. DeCanio Jr.

Patrick H. DeCanio Jr., 89, of Rocky Point, NY, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, music, faith, and family. Patrick is survived by his devoted partner of 36 years, Mary Cappasso. He was a loving father to Patrick H. DeCanio III and his wife Kathy, Joseph DeCanio and his wife Edie, Jeanmarie Angarola (née DeCanio) and her husband James, and Stephanie Ann Buffa and her husband Erik Paulson. He was the proud grandfather of Jessica DeCanio, Megan Englander (née Jatsko) and her husband Mike, Elizabeth Boselli (née Angarola) and her husband Kevin, Generose Angarola, Kristina, Diana, Joseph DeCanio, JP, Anthony, Matteo, and Ellie Paulson. His love extended into the next generation with great-grandchildren Mila, Gigi, and Natalia Englander.

Born the eldest son of Patrick and Marie DeCanio, Patrick is now reunited with his beloved siblings who predeceased him: his brother Robert, sister Marie Louise, and brother-in-law Joseph Carson. He is survived by his sisters Camille DeCanio and her husband Jerry Milazzo, Anita DeCanio, his sister-in-law Betty, and brother-in-law Arthur Avedon. Patrick will be fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Richard DeCanio (Danelle), William DeCanio, Louise Marie Engar (née DeCanio) and her husband Troy, and Nicholas Carson (Jessica), as well as great-nieces and nephews Robert and Jenna Engar, and Lucas and Cooper Carson.

Patrick proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army, a chapter of his life that instilled a deep sense of discipline, patriotism, and pride that he carried throughout his years.

Patrick had a long and dedicated career working at Grumman as an Equipment Expediter, followed by roles as a Marketing Representative for HIP (now Emblem Health), and as a salesman of religious textbooks and inspirational literature—perfectly aligned with his deep Catholic faith and lifelong devotion to the Blessed Mother. He prayed the Rosary daily and was active in prayer groups and parish life wherever he lived.

A talented musician, Patrick played piano from a young age and shared his tenor voice with several community and church choirs, including the St. Anthony’s Choir, St. Louis de Montfort Choir, North Shore Chamber Choir, Shoreham-Wading River Community Chorus, and the Brookhaven Choral Festival. His passion for music brought joy to many and remained a treasured part of his life.

Patrick had a zest for travel and experienced the world with cruises through the Caribbean and guided tours through Italy, Spain, Malta, Egypt, and England. A lifelong Yankees fan and true beach lover, Patrick had his favorite beaches on Long Island to visit like Bayville and Cedar Beach in Mt. Sinai. He even purchased a condo in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he spent countless days enjoying the sun and swimming. Known for his style and charm, Patrick was a “Dapper Dan” in every sense—frequently seen in three-piece suits with a bright smile to match. But beyond his outward appearance, it was his warm spirit, quick wit, unwavering faith, and deep love for his family that truly defined him.

Patrick’s life was one of grace, song, and deep connection. He will be remembered always as a devoted partner, proud father and grandfather, beloved brother and uncle, faithful veteran, and a true gentleman.