Anthony “Tony” Schifano, age 82 and longtime Old Forge resident, entered peacefully into eternal life on Tuesday with his family by his side at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore, after a lengthy illness.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Johanna “Cookie” Schifano who followed the Lord home on December 9, 2017. The couple had three devoted children that endlessly cared for them during both of their illnesses: Anthony Schifano of Old Forge, Christine Paroby and husband Stephen of Old Forge and Joseph Schifano and girlfriend Kelly O’Connor of New Milford. Tony’s light in his world was his grandson, Jacob Paroby, whom he spent many summers fishing with at Lake Wallenpaupack.
Born on September 20, 1943, and raised in Pittston, Tony was the son of the late Joseph and Helen (Gerich) Schifano. A 1962 graduate of Pittston High School, he was named “Senior Class Most Attractive.” Following high school he subsequently enlisted in the National Guard for six years while in the meantime he and Cookie married, ultimately sharing 51 years of marriage together.
Tony was a dedicated worker to many companies. Starting off his journey as the owner of Scott Cutting dress factory in Pittston, he then transitioned to Owens-Illinois, Techniglass Corporation, and Wegmans, and following Cookie’s passing, to the University of Scranton in which he received great joy from interacting with the many students on campus.
Tony was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. An avid hunter, he spent many wonderful years at Lake Wallenpaupack pursuing his “10-point buck.” He enjoyed watching cooking shows, western movies, collecting retro memorabilia and handing down his vintage comic book collection to his beloved grandson, Jacob.
He is also survived by his siblings, Josie Capitano of Pittston and John Schifano and wife Lina of Trucksville; and nieces, nephews and countless friends.
His family would like to extend their gratitude to both John Heinz Institute and Allied Services for helping Tony become strong enough to return home. They’d also like to thank Elan Skilled Nursing staff for the extraordinary care and compassion throughout his last nine months with added gratitude to Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Dunmore for providing a peaceful sanctuary during Tony’s final days and also to In Home Personal Care Services, especially Jerry Uhrin, for providing a safe haven of care in the home setting where Tony was able to live for three years. Jerry’s unwavering dedication, care, compassion, loyalty and friendship to Tony and his family brought him into their family forever.
Funeral services are scheduled to begin on Monday at 9:15 AM from the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge, with a 10:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Prince of Peace Parish, in Old Forge to be celebrated by Rev. Walter Jenkins, Pastor. Burial will follow at Old Forge Cemetery.
Family and friends may pay their respects on Sunday between 4-7:00 PM at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made in Tony’s name to the St. Jude Children Hospital c/o P.O. Box 1999, Memphis, TN 38101.
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