Paul Anthony De Fazio

With a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Paul Anthony De Fazio, at the age of 99. Dad was born December 20, 1922 in Boston Massachusetts to Pietro De Fazio and Giuseppina Petronio De Fazio. His parents emigrated from Calabria, Italy to Boston. When dad was twelve years old, they moved to Los Angeles, California with his parents and 3 younger brothers, Louie, Frank & Tony.
Dad was at peace as he left this world on the evening of February 7, 2022. His four sons, Fred, Tom, Jim & John; Daughter in law's, Shirley, Connie, Mary & Francene; 8 grandchildren, Amy, Lisa, Danielle, Karen, Matt, Jenn, Kellie & Jackie; and 10 great grandchildren, Emma, Nathan, Sean, Travis, Lea, Ria, Alana, Easton, Benjamin and Sienna mourn his death but are comforted knowing his life was full.
Dad was one of the Greatest Generation, living through the Great Depression and serving his country with distinction in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He served aboard the USS Lander APA 178 (Attack Personnel Transport Ship). He drove the landing craft that transported soldiers and marines during beach landings at Iwo Jima, Okinawa and other battles in the Pacific.
After the war dad courted and married Elena Barrese and together they raised their family in Southern California. Mom & Dad loved to dance and belonged to several Italian clubs. They danced through 66 years of marriage until mom's death in 2014.
After mom's death the family rallied around dad and he spent many days enjoying each of his kids and their families. Dad loved all of the family gatherings, especially making homemade pasta at his house with everyone and sharing stories of his past. He always had a smile and open arms for family and friends. Some of his favorite things to do were bocce ball and poker. We cannot imagine life without you, but we cherish all of our wonderful memories. We love you dad!