The Downey Patriot

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Antonio “Tony” Cantacessi

January 9, 1929 - October 3, 2019

Antonio “Tony” Cantacessi, was born in Los Angeles on January 09, 1929, to Giuseppe and Anna Cantacessi, who had emigrated from Italy. He was the 5th of eight children, grew up in Los Angeles and was a proud graduate of Fremont High School. In 1952, Tony was drafted into the Army and was stationed in Okinawa, serving his country until June 1954.

In the summer of 1954, he met his future wife, Dorma Lee Watson of Paramount, CA, and they married on July 01, 1955. They purchased a home & settled in Hollydale, were blessed with five children, and were married for 64 years. Tony worked in the printing business and retired in 1994. He was a dedicated family man and Christian.

Tony’s hobbies included spending time with his children and grandchildren, working in his yard, collecting coins, and visiting libraries and museums. He was an avid reader, a lifelong fan of big band music and the Dodgers.

During retirement he enjoyed attending golf tournaments with his brothers, taking day trips to local casinos and visiting Southern California beaches and landmarks. He was a member of the Downey Bocce Club, where he spent many happy years playing bocce and making new friends.

Tony is preceded in death by his son, Nicholas, granddaughter Angelina, his parents & six siblings. He is survived by his wife Dorma Lee Cantacessi, daughters Joni Toussaint (Wayne) & Cicily Vincent (Jim), and sons Mario Cantacessi (Raquel) & Alexander Cantacessi (Shuny); 9 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, and his brother Luiggi Cantacessi.

Tony was a friendly man who never met a stranger, dearly loved his wife, children and grandchildren, and was a curious and interesting person. He will be sorely missed, but we have hope of being reunited with him in eternal life with Christ.