Anthony John Fontano

Tony was born on December 7, 1942 in Staten Island, New York where he was raised by his loving, hardworking parents, Marie and Fiore Fontano. He grew up in a welcoming household that was a go-to destination for so many family and friends. In 1964, he joined the Army Reserves and served for six years.

Tony started his working career at the United States Lines Company in lower Manhattan where he met his wife Julia. They were were married in Brooklyn, New York on June 19, 1966. They welcomed their son Anthony Michael Fontano on August 2, 1967. Tony spent his working career at AFA Protective Systems Incorporated for 32 years.

Tony loved to go fishing, crabbing and especially enjoyed going to the New York Giants football games with his son, Anthony, who was his pride and joy. Tony (“Pop”) spent many memorable summers vacationing at the New Jersey Shore with Julia, Anthony, his daughter-in-law Michelle and his two beautiful granddaughters, Christina and Alexandra.

In January 2000, Tony and Julia moved to Naples, Florida where they lived the retirement life. They loved to travel, enjoying trips throughout the United States, cruising through the Caribbean and touring Europe with family and friends. He enjoyed playing bocce at the Tarpon Cove Yacht and Racquet Club where he was captain of his team. He also enjoyed getting together with his friends from the Tarpon Cove community where he had many laughs and good times.

Tony also spent time volunteering and supporting the local food bank. Tony was a quiet, kind, respectful and gentle man who was always willing to give a helping hand.

Tony is survived by his wife Julia, his son Anthony, his daughter-in-law Michelle, two granddaughters Christina and Alexandra, and his brother Joe Fontano. He is also survived by his two god-daughters Theresa Fazzolari and Lisa LaMarca, and by other nieces, nephews, many cousins, relatives and friends. Tony was predeceased by his parents Marie and Fiore Fontano, his sister-in-law Susan Fontano, his brother-in-law Bob Fazzolari, and several aunts and uncles.

A service will be held at the Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens at 10:00 AM on Thursday, January 27, 2022. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tony’s memory to the Arthritis Foundation at Arthritis.org or the American Heart Association at Heart.org.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hodgesfhatnaplesmg.com for the Fontano family.