Anthony J. Sparacino

Anthony J. Sparacino, 85, passed away suddenly on February 10, 2016. Tony was born in Pittsburgh, PA to Gaetano and Maria (Cefalu) Sparacino. He married the love of his life, Petrina Dentici, on October 28, 1953 and spent 62 years cherishing every day together. His second love was his family, Marie (Samuel) Morocco of Poland, OH, Frank (Tammy) Sparacino of Brackney, PA, and his two beloved sons, Thomas and Anthony who welcomed him to heaven with open arms. Also left to cherish his memory are his grandchildren Justin (Kellie) Morocco, Melissa Sparacino, Petrina Morocco, Genna Morocco, and his great grandchildren, Katherine and Joseph Morocco, his three devoted sisters Mary Baiardo, Evelyn Guerriero, and Joanne (Vincent) Palmiere. Also survived by Gaetano (Tom) Dentici, Catherine (Kay) Kurtz, Josephine Dentici, and Joseph (Janet) Dentici who all thought of him as their brother, many loving nieces and nephews and great friends. Tony served in the Army and was very proud to play trumpet in the Army band. He also played the bass fiddle in many Pittsburgh venues. Tony was a retired District Manager for John Hancock Life Insurance Company where he successfully led his agents to achieve many awards. When he retired in 1989, golf and the warm sunshine lured him to make his home in West Palm Beach, FL where every day he would wake up, go to his patio and say, "just another day in paradise". Tony was an avid Steelers and Pirates fan who watched every game even while living in Florida. He loved thoroughbred racing and even raced his own horses over the years. Tony was a born comedian and always had a joke or funny story for everyone. We thought possibly he missed his calling. People were naturally drawn to him because he had a way of always making them feel special. He was one of a kind. He will be sorely missed by all the lives that he touched. There will be a funeral Mass at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 2230 Rochester Road, Pittsburgh, PA on Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at 12 noon. Family and friends may pay their respects one hour before Mass at the church.