Colonel Anthony P. DeLuca

Colonel Anthony Peter DeLuca, U.S. Army (Retired), passed away in his home on February 17, 2026, in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of duty, honor, service, faith, and devotion to his family and friends.

Anthony (Tony) was born on July 5, 1931, in Boston, Massachusetts, and was raised in Jersey City, New Jersey, where he attended St. Peter's Prep, graduating with class top honors. From an early age, he demonstrated the self-discipline, integrity, and determination that would define his life. Receiving a congressional appointment, he attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating with the Class of 1953 and beginning a distinguished career as an Infantry Officer in the United States Army. He later earned graduate degrees from the Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth, where he also instructed, the U.S. Army War College at Carlisle Barracks, and Shippensburg University (MS Guidance & Counseling), further reflecting his lifelong commitment to personal and people development and leadership.

In 1953, Tony married the love of his life, Kathleen Mary Durkin of The Bronx, New York, who predeceased him in 2021. Their marriage of 68 years was a true partnership built on love, faith, loyalty, and mutual respect. Together they created a warm and welcoming home centered on family, tradition, and togetherness.

Tony proudly served his country for 22 years, including post Korean War service, as a distinguished combat veteran of the Vietnam War, and 18 moves with Kathy and family for various assignments. He led with courage, strength, a humility, and unwavering commitment to the soldiers under his command, earning the respect and admiration of all who served alongside him. His final assignments included Regimental Executive and Commanding Officer, and S1 (Personnel Officer) for the West Point Corps of Cadets, and Commandant of the United States Military Academy Preparatory School at Fort Belvoir, now located at West Point. He retired from the Army in 1975 at the rank of Colonel, concluding a remarkable military career defined by outstanding leadership and dedication to duty. Colonel DeLuca's courage and service distinguished him as one of the most valorous and decorated officers of his West Point class.

Following his retirement from military service, Tony began a successful second career in Human Resources within the chemical manufacturing industry. He held leadership roles, with a focus on people and corporate development for well-known companies, including BASF, M&T Chemical, and Elf Atochem where he ultimately served and retired as Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Administration. In these roles, he brought the same integrity, fairness, and leadership that defined his military career, earning the respect of colleagues and employees alike.

Retiring in 1997 to homes in Newtown Square, PA, and on Long Beach Island, NJ, Tony's greatest joy and commitment was in and to his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud and loving father to Teri (Martin Erb), Peter (Cathy), Jeanne (Edward Parello), Joe, Tom (Soraya), and John (Cindy). He cherished his role as grandfather to 13 grandchildren and great-grandfather to 10 great-grandchildren, taking interest and pride in each of their lives and accomplishments. His steady guidance, wisdom, and unconditional love will continue to shape his family for generations. Tony was also predeceased by his mother, Ida, his father, Peter, his sister, Albina (Warbrick), and his daughter, Jeanne (Parello). He is also survived by brothers Sam (Barbara) and Peter (Debbie).

Beyond his distinguished careers, Tony will be remembered for a lifelong love of basketball, joy of coaching and officiating, mentoring young players, sharing his passion for teamwork, discipline, skills, and sportsmanship. An absolute avid Duke Basketball fan, he took great pride in the fact that Mike "Coach K" Krzyzewski, and his wonderful wife Mickie began their legendary coaching journey together at USMAPS during Tony's tenure as Commandant. He loved cooking, a passion he shared generously with family and friends. Whether preparing meals for holidays, family gatherings, or quiet evenings at home, he expressed his love through the care he put into every dish. The kitchen was one of his favorite places – a space filled with laughter, stories, the comfort of being together, and delicious food.

A man of quiet strength, deep faith, and steady character, loyalty was Tony's greatest attribute – a quality he lived every day through his devotion to family, unwavering support of friends, and his lifelong commitment to those he lived and served alongside. He led by example, teaching through his actions the values of faith, hard work, humility, perseverance, and kindness. Those who knew him will remember his calm presence, thoughtful advice, gentle humor, and unwavering sense of duty to both family and country.

He will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and the many friends and colleagues whose lives he touched. Colonel DeLuca's life of service and unwavering love for his family represent his enduring legacy. May he rest in eternal peace.

Services will be handled by Hogan Funeral Home of Highland Falls, New York. Tony will be laid to rest alongside Kathleen at West Point Cemetery and scheduled as West Point Memorial Services permits.