Anthony D. Blaso Sr.

Anthony D. Blaso Sr., 103, entered eternal rest on Saturday, March 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Wilkes-Barre to Cosmo and Josephine (DeVito) Blaso, Anthony resided there until heenlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served as a decorated Sergeant. He flew with VMB-613 Bombing Squadron aboard the Billy Mitchell B-25 North American bomber. During World War II, he completed 37 missions as a top turret gunner, stationed in the Marshall Islands.

Anthony was awarded the American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal withbronze star, World War II Victory Medal, Combat Aircrew Insignia with two bronze stars, Rifle Marksman Badge, and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. He was immensely proud of his service as a United States Marine.He married the love of his life, Irene Poplawski Blaso, and together they made their home in Kingston, where they raised their children. Anthony cherished his 67 years with Irene, enjoying traveling and dancing the polka together.

He was a devoted member of St. Hedwig's Parish and later St. Ignatius Church, where he was active in the Holy Name Society and many parish activities. Anthony was also a dedicatedmember of the Knights of Columbus Assumpta Council 3987, serving as Past Grand Knight andFaithful Navigator. He attained both the Third and Fourth Degrees and worked for over 30 years as one of the organization's top fundraisers.

Anthony was the owner of Anthony Blaso Trucking and Hauling, which he operated from the time he left military service well into his 90s. He lived by the philosophy, "You've got to keep moving to live a long and happy life," and he truly embodied those words.Family was always most important to Anthony. He enjoyed dining out and had a special love forsweets-especially apple pie made with Cortland apples, served with ice cream.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Irene; brothers Joseph and PeterBlaso; sister Mary Avery; son Anthony Jr.; and grandson Scott Chopick.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Ann Marie Chopick and her husband, Robert; Debi Roan and her husband, Eugene; and Cindy Vecchio and her husband, Michael.

He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren-Robert Chopick, Jeff Chopick and wife Tracey, Stephan Chopick, Eric Roan, Dr. Christine Vecchio and husband William Kielblock, Nicole and husband Brian Atherholt, Danielle and husband Andrew Petros-as well as seven beloved great grandchildren: Alex and Lauren Atherholt, Sami and Andrew Petros, Julia Kielblock, Auston and Dylon Chopick; as well as Great granddaughter Madison Rose Kielblock, grandson Eugene Roan proceeded in death.

A viewing will be held on March 23rd from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Hugh B. Hughes Funeral Home, 1044 Wyoming Ave, Forty Fort, PA.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 24th at St. Ignatius of Loyola Church, 339 N Maple Ave, Kingston, PA at 10AM. Interment with Military Honors will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Wyoming.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Ignatius Church or to a charity of your choice.