Anthony Fiacchino

Anthoy Vito Fiacchino

Anthony Vito Fiacchino, affectionately known as Papa Tone, Tony or "TV," passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, in Naperville, Illinois, at the age of 75. Born on April 2,1950, in Chicago, Illinois, Tony lived a life defined by hard work, deep devotion to family, and an unwavering commitment to those around him.

A proud graduate of Austin High School in Chicago in 1968, Tony was a self-made man whose education came not from a college classroom but from the "school of hard knocks"—from life, people, and experience. Tony was a logistics man to the core. He started in 1970 with AEI working nights on loading docks while steadily learning everything he could. His relentless determination and work ethic inspired him to "do it his way" and open AeroStar Global Logistics and its family of companies circa 2002.

Tony's success in business was matched only by his generosity. He was deeply philanthropic, supporting numerous organizations throughout his life. As a member of the Italian American Executives of Transportation (IAET), in 2011 IAET recognized Tony's contributions and compassion, honoring him as IAET's Humanitarian of the Year.

At the heart of Tony's life was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra Mary Fiacchino; his children Melissa Hope(Fiacchino) Thomas (Jason Richmond Thomas), Dena Charlene Fiacchino (Joseph Luber), Anthony Dominic Fiacchino (Danielle Human), Gina Luciana Fiacchino, Katherine Diana Alland (Jeremy Andrew Alland), and Alan William Brus (Sydney White); and his cherished grandchildren: Grace Antoinette Thomas, Jackson Malcolm Thomas, Thatcher William Thomas, Ruby Mae Hawke, Chloe Raquel Fiacchino, Iris Mio Fiacchino, Stella Lucille Fiacchino, Sadie Rose Ruane, Joseph Anthony Ruane, Olive Rhys Alland, and Logan James Alland.

He also leaves behind his siblings Carol Lieggi, Janice Ford, lifelong friend and brother-in-law Tom Ford, Millie Heinz (Phil), and Vito Fiacchino. He was predeceased by his parents, Anthony Dominic Fiacchino, Lucille Virginia Fiacchino, and brother-in-law Lorenzo Lieggi. Tony also mourned the loss of his beloved German Shepherd and loyal companion Samson

Tony's passions were as vast as his heart. A lifelong fisherman, he found peace on the water—whether on early trips to Canada or casting lines with his children, grandchildren, family, and friends. His love for nature and culture led him to embrace the Ojibwe heritage while living in Laporte, Minnesota, where he and Sandy created their own "ShangraLa," a haven they joyfully shared with all who visited.

He was an enthusiastic world traveler for both business and pleasure. Holidays were sacred to Tony, with traditional Italian Christmas enjoying the 'Feast of Seven Fishes and large family gatherings. Halloween brought out his playful side, with elaborate haunted house displays passed on through each generation.

Tony was a culinary enthusiast who took pride in perfecting his meatballs and red sauce—often sparring with his sisters over whose recipe reigned supreme. He adored music across all genres and loved attending concerts. A lifelong Cubs fan who celebrated their long-awaited 2016 World Series win and a diehard Chicago Bears fan who recently road-tripped with his grandson for the Bears' season opener in Buffalo.

Tony's garage was more than a workspace—it was a sanctuary for sharing wisdom, life lessons, Saturday clean-outs, and cherished memories. Tony's "garage talks" were ceremonial and cherished moments in time. He appreciated order and detail, all the way down to ironed T- shirts and crisp jeans lovingly prepared by Sandy.

He was a devoted Catholic by upbringing, but held deep respect for all faiths and spiritual paths. As a beloved Godfather—or "goomba" to many, Tony embodied trust and guidance. His spirituality shone through in his reverence for life's simple wonders.

Larger than life is perhaps the only way to begin describing Tony Fiacchino, a man whose presence could fill any room with warmth, laughter and purpose. A devoted father, husband, papa, brother, uncle, cousin, Godfather, and friend - he made everyone feel like family. His love for Sunday dinners was only matched by his love for those were seated around the table or walked in the door!

Tony's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the lessons he imparted through word and example. His spirit will continue to echo in every act of kindness inspired by him and every story shared around family tables for generations to come.

Our beloved Father, Husband and Papa Tone - your physical form may have departed us, but your love, legacy, wisdom, honor, and spirit live on within each of us. There are too many "Tonyisms" to count - but one mantra will always ring true: **ALLA FAMIGLIA!**

Thanks Dad. We love you.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Venuti's,
2251 West Lake Street,
Addison, Illinois.

Honoring Tony's beautiful life begins at 1:00, followed by the funeral service at 3:00, with Father Tony Pizzo. Please join us for Sunday dinner, after service, to honor and love Tony together with his greatest gift, his family.