Anthony J. Mazzarino

Anthony “Tony” Joseph Mazzarino, 96, passed away unexpectedly, March 29, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Springfield, the third of six children, of the late John and Lucia (Maratea) Mazzarino of Italy. Tony graduated from Springfield’s Trade High School. Following graduation he served his country proudly as gunner’s mate on the USS Wadleigh, a destroyer that participated in many pivotal battles, turning the tide of WWII in the South Pacific. Returning home after the war, he married his sister Josie’s best friend, Olga Lodigiani. Tony worked on the first nuclear submarine, the Nautilus, at Chapman Valve Co., and together with his father, owned and operated Mazzarino’s Market. Tony and Olga were then long-time owners of the Village Food Mart in Hampden where they made many dear friends. Tony’s warmth, generosity, and energy were legendary. He loved being Italian-American and served with distinction as Commander of the Italian American War Veterans. In 2001, Tony was awarded the Serviam Award by the Italian Cultural Center of Western MA, “In recognition of his Dedication and Outstanding Service for more than 50 years in Promoting Italian Cultural and Spiritual Standards.” After Tony retired at 65, he took the honorary position of “Quality Control Manager” at his daughter April’s and niece Mary Kay Vear’s bakery, Nona’s Cookie Basket in Hampden. He was a great cook and was known for his roasted peppers and stuffed calamari. He loved making his own wine which he shared with his many friends. Tony often donated his cooking skills to prepare many banquets for the Stigmatine Fathers and other church organizations. Volunteering as a crossing guard, he was known as, “Mr. Tony” to the local school children. He liked to carry dog biscuits in his pockets for his many canine friends that walked by his home each day. In 2006, Tony and Olga bought a second home in Bonita Springs, where they spent the winters. Tony loved being outside in the warm Florida sunshine, golfing most days and enjoying time with his new wonderful friends. Tony will be dearly missed by his beloved wife Olga, his children, John and wife Linda Storm of NC, April Mazzarino-Willett and husband James of NC, Gary and wife Carole of Longmeadow, grandchildren, Oliver Storm-Mazzarino and wife Judy, Candace Willett, Natalie Zahniser-Word and husband James (Jake), Seana Oskandy and husband Michael, Maria Mazzarino and husband Johnny Carrick, great-grandchildren, Jackson Storm-Mazzarino and Lincoln Zahniser-Word, and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Family and friends are invited to Tony’s Liturgy of Christian Burial, Tuesday, April 6, 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. His burial will follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery. Masks and social distancing required. In the hopes of keeping his many friends safe during this uncertain time, Tony’s family held a small, private visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Carmel Church, 123 William St., Springfield, MA 01105. Please visit www.TazziniFuneralHome.com for condolences.