Anthony J. "Tony" DeFeciani

Anthony J. DeFeciani ("Tony") passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on December 23, 2025.

Born in 1932 in Haverstraw, New York, Tony was a lifelong member of the community he deeply loved. He attended Haverstraw High School, where he played trumpet in the marching band and was voted Most Musical in his senior year.

Following graduation, Tony enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country during the Korean War aboard the USS Strong. During his service he traveled extensively throughout the world and was awarded the Bronze Star. His commitment to the Navy continued for more than 30 years as a member of the Navy Reserve Seabees Division.

Tony was a hardworking and dedicated professional who spent many years employed at Bear Mountain, Lederle Laboratories, and New York Telephone/Verizon, where he retired after 30 years of service.

A pillar of the Haverstraw community, Tony was a 60-year volunteer firefighter with the Haverstraw Fire Department Relief Hose Company #3 and proudly served as Fire Chief. He was a Life Member of the Rockland County Volunteer Firemen's Association and the Rockland County Fire Chiefs Association.

Tony was known for his courage, humility, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Whether running into burning buildings without hesitation or offering his handyman skills freely throughout the community, there was little he would not do for those in need. One moment that remains especially vivid was watching him battle a massive blaze from the roof of the local lumberyard, axe in hand-an image that perfectly captures his fearless and selfless spirit.

Outside of work and service, Tony found joy in gardening, fishing, and even building a boat. He took great pride in his business Rainbow Gardens, where he was famous for growing the most delicious tomatoes.

Above all else, Tony was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared 66 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Joan, and together they raised six children. He cherished every moment with his family.

Tony was predeceased by his son, Christopher; his parents, Lena and Fiore DeFeciani; and his sisters, Ann Novack, Elizabeth Bates, and Virginia DeFeciani.

He is survived by his wife, Joan; his children, Carol, Anthony Jr. (Kelly), Tracy (Marco), Patrick (Linda), and Lisa (Jordan); his grandchildren Emily (Mike), Josh (Nancy), Zak, Jake, Joseph, Lena, Patrick, Sean, Marco, Ava, Ella, Nate, and Liam; and his great-grandchildren, Maverick and Vivianna. He is also lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews: William (Jay), Betty Ann, MaryJean (Mike), Stephen (Marianna), Ed (Caroltta), Jimmy, Brian, and Rory.

Tony will be remembered for his service to his country, his dedication to his community, his tireless work ethic, and the deep love he held for his family. He lived his life with remarkable courage, integrity, humility, and selfless devotion - and those who knew him will tell you they simply don't make them like Tony anymore. His legacy of kindness, courage, and commitment will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tony's memory to:

Haverstraw Fire Department
Relief Hose Company #3
11 Conklin Avenue
Haverstraw, NY 10927

or

United Hospice of Rockland County