Anthony Richard Fortunato, 99, of Largo, FL, passed away on April 30.2021. Anthony was born on September 15, 1921 to Michael and Amilia Fortunato in Brooklyn, New York. He married the loved of his life, Frances Barbara Fortunato (Vastola), on June 8, 1946.
Tony received a degree in Law Enforcement and worked for the New York Police Department from 1951-1976. Prior to 1951 Tony, was a seamstress, jeweler, and watchmaker and from 1941-1945 he was in World War II as a Sergeant, Carbine Marksman, photographer in the 575th Bombardment Squadron in air offensive Europe, and Crooner in the Army Air Corp Jazz Band. He was stationed in England, France and Germany. Tony received the American Service Medal, Distinguished Unit Badge, European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal during his service.
In Tony’s later years he was the president of the New York City Columbia Association and he started a chapter of The American Legions in Queens NY. Once he moved down to Florida, he became a member of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Advisory Board and Zone Leader in Largo, FL. He was also a very active member of St. Jerome’s Catholic Church and community outreach programs.
Tony had a passion for entertainment, singing, dancing, performing, being a comedian, cooking, playing tennis, golf, calisthenics, and healthy living. He loved his family dearly and had a soft spot for his dogs.
Tony is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Frances and his son, Craig.
He is survived by his daughters, Karen Maestranzi (Leonard) and Andrea Fortunato; Grandchildren, Michael, Jack, Ava (Mario), Sabrina (Joshua), and Tiffany; great-grandson, Giovanni Maestranzi ; many nieces and nephews and also his beloved dogs Dilly and Marley.
On Thursday, May 6th from 2pm-4pm & 6pm-8pm a viewing will be held at Serenity Funeral Home in Largo, FL. On Friday, May 7th a funeral mass will be held at St. Jerome’s Catholic Church at 11:30am, followed by entombment at 1pm at Serenity Gardens.
To watch services online please click links below:
Topic: Anthony Fortunato's Celebration of Life Live Stream at St. Jerome Catholic Church
Time: May 7, 2021 11:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/92712620430?pwd=Y3dETmUvWHdoTlB0dklOaVlEekdxQT09
Topic: Anthony Fortunato's Celebration of Life Live Streaming Graveside
Time: May 7, 2021 01:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/92193682228?pwd=ajA5djRlaGdyb1d0Q0N1MU9KM0x3UT09
