Anthony Zappone

Zappone, Anthony
Anthony John Zappone, 87, of Watertown, CT the son of John Anthony Zappone and Catherine (Giagiacomo), left this world following a life well lived on Thursday, January 14, 2021. Tony left an impact on the people he knew and is remembered for his quick wit, intelligence, caring nature and his melodious tenor voice. His renditions of Irish folksongs such as "Oh Danny Boy" and "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" will be missed by all who loved him.
Tony is survived by his siblings Mary, Alice, Gertrude, Joe, and Cathy. His six children, Marialta (Carlo), Cynthia, John (Mary), Mark (Luci), Bill (Natalie), and Steve (Stephanie). As well as three stepchildren Scott (Michelle), Jay, and Gary (Vic). Tony will be loved and remembered by his 19 grand and great-grandchildren, Katie, Stephanie, Noah, Esther, Abraham, Frances, Anna, Sarah, Eric, Alec, Natalia, Anthony, Leah, Avery, Ryan, Aaron, Genevieve, Tyler, and Leo. Tony will be greeted by his parents, his adoring wife Mary, sister Theresa, and many friends.
Tony graduated from Watertown High School in 1952 with both a diploma and reputation for being able to make engines purr. His yearbook states, "he took four spools, and an old tin can, and oh, by heck, the darn thing ran". This love of cars never subsided, late in life he would still visit car shows and drive his Corvette on route 8.
When his nation called Tony joined the Army and served in the Korean Conflict. Working in the motor corps, Sgt. Zappone recalled fixing vehicles while they were moving. Following the cease fire Tony was stationed in Japan where had the opportunity to tour the country, enjoy egg burgers, and won the base's ping pong championship. Thirty years later his kids can confirm Dad's serve was almost unhittable.
Once Tony's enlistment ended, he attended Post College in Waterbury acquiring a degree in Accounting and becoming the first member of his family to attend college. After working a short time in the data processing department at Timex, he left to pursue his true passion, building houses. Tony built more houses than his kids can count and loved every project. He leaves this world a more loving and sturdier place through his devotion to family and unrelenting work ethic.
The family wishes to extend its gratitude and thanks to his wonderful caregiver Maria and the staff at Brandywine who became part of his extended family.
Calling Hours will be held at Hickcox Funeral Home in Watertown, CT from 4-7 p.m. on January 29th.
Funeral Services will be held on January 30th, 10 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church in Watertown, CT.
For additional information or to leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.hickcoxfuneralhome.com.