Anthony John Elisco

Dr. Anthony J. Elisco, Jr., of Farrell, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, January 29, 2026, at UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle, surrounded by his loving wife and family.

Born on December 22, 1933, in New Castle, Pennsylvania, Dr. Elisco was the son of Antonio "Tony" and Antoinette "Nellie" (Pasquariello) Elisco. To his family and those closest to him, he was lovingly known as "Junior" or "Uncle Junior," and to his grandchildren, he was simply "Poppy."

A 1952 graduate of Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills, Ohio, Dr. Elisco was a standout football player. He went on to attend John Carroll University in University Heights, Ohio, where he continued to excel academically and proudly played collegiate football.

Answering a lifelong calling to serve others, Dr. Elisco earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1962. He obtained medical licensure in Pennsylvania and Ohio in 1963 and proudly maintained those licenses throughout his entire professional life.

Dr. Elisco completed his surgical residency at Green Cross Hospital in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. In 1969, he returned to the Shenango Valley and joined Shenango Valley Osteopathic Hospital, where he built a highly respected career as a general surgeon. He served as Chief of Staff for many years and became known for his clinical excellence, calm leadership, and unwavering dedication to his patients. His surgical career spanned more than three decades before his retirement from surgery in 1996.

Following a remarkable career in general surgery, Dr. Elisco transitioned into family medicine, continuing to do what he loved most, caring for people. In this role, he practiced with the same compassion, humility, and attentiveness that defined his entire career, remaining devoted to the care of his patients throughout his life. For Dr. Elisco, medicine was never simply a profession, but a lifelong calling.

A man of strong and steady faith, Dr. Elisco was a devoted member of Our Lady of Fatima Church in Farrell. For decades, he served as a lector and altar acolyte, becoming a familiar and trusted presence within the parish.

His dedication to service extended well beyond medicine. Dr. Elisco served on the Farrell School Board for more than 20 years, offering thoughtful leadership and wisdom. He also volunteered as team physician for the Farrell Steelers and the Kennedy Catholic Golden Eagles, supporting generations of student athletes with pride and care.

Proud of his Italian heritage, Dr. Elisco carried his traditions, values, and deep love of family into every part of his life. He adored his wife and found his greatest joy in time spent with his children and grandchildren, who were truly the center of his world.

Known for his warmth, quick wit, and playful mischief, he had a way of making people feel instantly at ease. Outside of work, he was a devoted lifelong fan of Penn State Football and the Pittsburgh Steelers, rarely missing a game. An avid reader, he enjoyed quiet moments with a good book. Whether watching football, enjoying a good cigar, or settling in to watch his favorite classic westerns, he found joy in the simple moments of life.

Dr. Elisco is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Anita M. (Fabian) Elisco, whom he married on July 13, 1963, at St. Vitus Church in New Castle.

He is also survived by his loving children and their families, Dr. Anthony J. Elisco III and his wife Aida of Rockwall, Texas; Dr. Mark C. Elisco and his wife Tonilynn of Burghill, Ohio; and Christina McGonigle and her husband Tim of Hermitage; as well as his sister, Madeline Elisco of New Castle.

He was a proud and devoted grandfather to seven grandchildren, Anthony J. Elisco IV, Luca Elisco, Isabella Elisco, Francesca Elisco, Lauren McGonigle (fiancé, Daulton Linton), Sarah McGonigle, and Caroline McGonigle.

In addition to his parents, Dr. Elisco was preceded in death by his sisters, Ann "Dolly" Cambro and Mary Barilla, and an infant brother.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Our Lady of Fatima Church, 601 Roemer Boulevard, Farrell, Pennsylvania 16121.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no public visitation. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Farrell, with Father Glenn Whitman and Father Frank DiCrisitina, concelebrating.

Interment will follow at St. Anthony Cemetery in Hermitage.