Anthony "Tony" DiBrango

Anthony “Tony” DiBrango, 84, passed peacefully on Saturday May 1, 2021.

Anthony was born in Utica, May 13, 1936, son of the late Carmine and Josephine (Isernia) DiBrango. He was raised and educated locally and attended T.R. Proctor High School.

Tony married Judy M. Foley, with whom he shared five children, until her passing.  Following Judy’s passing, he joined in marriage with Hope E. (Parkhurst) Blencowe, and for many years raised his family in Utica.  He later joined in marriage with Donna Rhoades, with whom he shared a daughter and step-son, for many years, in Herkimer. 

Tony was a dedicated Utica Fireman appointed on January 1, 1958. He was promoted to Lieutenant on February 22, 1973 and retired on January 11, 1978. He also co-owned the Cloverleaf Restaurant in Frankfort; and was employed at GE, Turningstone, and sold real estate in his retirement years.

Tony was an active member of the Masonic Amicable Lodge. Tony enjoyed life, dancing (favorite pastime), and always enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.  The memories that he leaves each of us will be cherished forever.

He is survived by his children, Anthony Jr., of FL, Sherry, and Thomas, both of Herkimer, Edward and his wife, Stephanie, of VA, Danielle, and stepson, Jamie Rhoades, both of Little Falls; his brother, Frank “Babe” and wife, Jeanie DiBrango; sister-in-law, MaryAnn DiBrango; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents; and a son, David; five brothers, Angelo, Joseph, George, Robert, and Eddie; and four sisters, Marie Colenzo, Julia Picente, Lucy Gentile, and Rose Palmisano.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, at 10 a.m., at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish.  Private interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call on Thursday, 5 to 7 p.m., at The Matt Funeral Home, 700 Rutger St., corner of Mohawk St., Utica.  The funeral home and church are working at limited capacity; all attendees must wear masks covering their nose and mouth, social distance, and register for Covid-19 tracing. Messages on The Matt Funeral Home website are of great comfort to the family.

In memory of Anthony DiBrango, please consider donations to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. at hospicecareinc.org

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