Philip Anthony Addabbo

Addabbo, Philip Anthony

Philip Anthony Addabbo, Age 90, died November 9th, 2016. He was born in Elmira, New York to Mary DeNunzio and Joseph Addabbo. He graduated from Elmira Free Academy where he was recognized as a standout athlete. He was inducted into the Elmira Sports Hall of Fame honoring his feats in football and wrestling. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War serving in the Seabees in the US Navy. He attended Syracuse University on the GI bill and received his degree in Physical Education. He was a lifelong fan of the Orange.

Returning home to Elmira, Phil began his construction career building 23 homes in Chemung County. His entrepreneurship expanded into building and operating two Ice Cream businesses: Tastee Freez in Malone NY and Big Top in Elmira.

He was a member of the Italian American Veterans, the Elmira Heights American Legion, and Horseheads Elks club. Phil enjoyed giving tours at the Corning Museum of Glass for fifteen years. With his son, he was active in Boy Scouting and was the inspiration behind three Eagle Scouts in his family. He taught community First Aid and CPR for many years. One of Phil's greatest passions included ballroom dancing which he taught with his wife, Stella. They belonged to the Aragon Dance Club and the Southern Tier Dine and Dance club. Many friends will also recall his fondness for opera and ballet.

Phil was a devoted son to his parents and was a lifelong mentor to his siblings. He was especially proud of the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren and was much loved by them.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Stella (MacLaren) Addabbo; children, Clare (Edwin) Jayne, Jane (James) Addabbo-Roberts, Laren (Susan) Addabbo, and Beth (Jan) Addabbo-Culp; grandchildren, Samuel and Emily Jayne, MacLaren Roberts, Kathryn and Philip Addabbo. He is also survived by brothers Thomas (Audrey) Addabbo and Joseph Addabbo, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by brother, James Addabbo and sisters, Elizabeth Wyatt and Loretta Personius and aunt, Elenora Burnett.

The family would like to thank the many health care professionals who cared for Philip. We also would like to thank all the staff and workers at Bethany Courtyards and Bethany Manor who cared for him with such kindness and compassion. The help from CareFirst, StafKings , Kara and her girls, and Gentiva is also appreciated.

Philip is donating his body to SUNY Upstate Medical University with Kalec Funeral Home's assistance. There will be no visitation or services. There will be a private memorial for the family.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Philip's memory to:

Chemung Valley Senior Citizen Center; Attn: Thomas Smetanka

211 Lynwood Ave,

Elmira Heights NY 14903