Anthony M. Lacina

WEST WYOMING — Anthony M. "Tony" Lacina, 81, of West Wyoming, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, in his home.

Tony was born in West Wyoming, to the late William and Angeline (Furino) Lacina. Tony lived a life marked by devotion to family, faith, and his country. A graduate of West Wyoming High School in 1960, Tony briefly worked in New Jersey before returning to Pennsylvania. At the age of 20, he enlisted in the National Guard, serving in the 109th Field Artillery Regiment during the Vietnam War. It was during this period that Tony met Celia, the love of his life, and they have been married for 52 years.

After his military service, Tony began painting local bridges, and attending night classes at Wilkes-Barre Business College. On Aug. 19, 1972, he and Ceil were married. Realizing that a corporate life wasn't for him, Tony took a position with A&A Construction as a head carpenter, working alongside family in West Wyoming. He later joined Carroll Construction in Dallas, Pa., where he worked until his retirement.

Tony was a man deeply rooted in his community and faith, known for his unwavering dedication to his family and his Catholic beliefs. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, often taking trips with friends to Lake Ontario. His den was filled with cherished collections, reflecting his passion for taxidermy which he enjoyed, especially when working with his father. Together, they created exceptional pieces of art for fellow hunters and fishermen.

Tony was a member of the American Legion Post 644 (Swoyersville), NRA, and a social member of the Wyoming Hose Co. #2. Tony also had a keen interest in army memorabilia and was an enthusiastic gardener. He loved visiting battlefields and engaging in discussions about history. Tony was a remarkable man whose absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

Tony is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Celia (McManus) Lacina; children: Melissa (Jason) Costa, of Manalapan, N.J.; Angela (Andrew) Vloyanetes, of Schwenksville; sister, MaryAnn Hardisky, of Lehman; grandchildren: Luke, Owen and Faith Costa; Jackson, Colton and Scarlett Vloyanetes; and nephew, Joey Hardisky.

The funeral service will be held at 9:30 a.m. Friday from Metcalfe Shaver Kopcza Funeral Home Inc., 504 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Monicas Parish, 363 West Eighth St., West Wyoming. Interment will immediately follow the Mass, at St. Joseph's Cemetery, West Wyoming.

Family and friends are invited to call from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, at Metcalfe Shaver Kopcza Funeral Home Inc., 504 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming.

To share memories or to send condolences, please visit us at www.MetcalfeShaver.com