Anthony S Centofanti

Poland - Anthony S. "Tony" Centofanti, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 11, 2016 at The Hospice House surrounded by his loving family . He was born September 27, 1929 in Struthers, the son of the late Teodore and Nellie (Pickle) Centofanti.

Tony graduated in 1947 from Struthers High School and according to his brother-in-law Brad Ramsbottom he was the best looking boy in his class. Before graduating high school,Tony enlisted in the Marine Corp; however, his service time would end shortly thereafter due to a medical honorable discharge. Although his time in the service was short he was proud to say he was a Marine.

Like many men of his generation, Tony worked for Youngstown Sheet and Tube. He later went on to become a salesman for the American News Co., Sunshine Biscuit Co., and the P & R Macaroni Co., where he rose to be their Regional Sales Manager. He also managed the former Fonderlac Country Club during the 1970's. His good nature, love of people and serving the public, led him to a career in politics. He served as President of Council for the city of Struthers later serving as its Mayor from 1975-1979 . In the 1980's he was an administrative aide to the late Congressman Lyle Williams.  During his political career he had the privilege of attending the inauguration of two United States Presidents, Jimmy Carter and George H. W. Bush. In addition, Tony was never afraid to try anything, having owned several businesses throughout  his life.

He was an avid New York Yankees and San Francisco 49ers fan. He enjoyed playing cards and cooking big Italian style dinners. One of his greatest loves was spending time with his dogs AJ  and Sammy and  his big cat George.  Tony  always  had the  best treats for  any furry  pet that  happened to stop  by.

Tony leaves to cherish his memories, his lovely wife and friend, Shirley Jean Ramsbottom, whom he married on June 30, 1951, his daughter Debra (Randy) Kish of Struthers, his son Marc (Martha) Centofanti of Struthers, a sister Elizabeth "Lee Bee" Thomas of Struthers, brothers and sister-in-law, Brad Ramsbottom of Struthers, and Bob (Mary Lou) Ramsbottom of Put-In-Bay, his grand-daughter Danielle (Ryan) Streb and two great-grand children Alexandra and Nicholas Streb of Canton and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Joseph Centofanti, Mario and Elserd Franceschelli, sisters Phyllis Tenuta, Antoinette Moretti and Mary Reichert, brothers and sisters-in-law, Ted and Alice Ramsbottom, Henry and Monica Ramsbottom, Dorothy Ramsbottom and his beloved dogs Alex, Winston and Clemmie.

Tony was a gentle man; loving husband, father, grand-father and great grand-father. He had a terrific sense of humor and was always quoting one liners. He would like to leave his family with one of his favorites, "I told you I was sick ...".  Tony will be sadly missed and forever remembered.

Family and friends may call on Wednesday, April 13, 2016 from 4 to 7 p.m. at The Cunningham Becker Funeral Home 270 N. Nain St. Poland. Funeral services will be Thursday at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Joe Congemi officiating.   Private entombment will be at Lake Park Cemetery.

Tony's family would like to express their sincere thanks for the exceptional care and compassion provided by Dr. John Koval, The Heart Center, MVI Hospice, Hospice of the Valley and their family and friends.

Contributions can be made to The Hospice House, 9803 Sharrot Rd., Poland OH 44514 or Animal Charity Humane Society, 4140 Market St., Boardman OH 44512.

Please visit  www .beckerobits.com  to share a  memory or send a  condolence.