Anthony R. Flammia, 87

MELROSE — Anthony R. “Tony” Flammia, a longtime resident of Melrose, passed away with his family by his side, listening to Frank Sinatra music, on Saturday, September 4, 2021, at age 87.

Born in Boston on December 9, 1933, Tony was the son of the late Antonio and Frances V. (Pierce) Flammia. He was raised in East Boston, graduated from East Boston High School, and enlisted in the United States Army. He served for two years, reaching the rank of Private, 1st Class during the Korean War, and received an honorable discharge in April of 1955. He continued his education at Boston State College where he received his Engineering Degree. Tony met his match, Maureen G. Hilton, at a mutual friend’s wedding and they were married on October 17, 1964. They moved to Melrose in 1968 at the birth of their daughter, Elizabeth.

Tony worked for over 20 years as a Civil Engineer for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, retiring in 1992. Tony always appreciated hard work and stayed busy after his retirement by working with his close friends at Donlon Construction and Teachers Painting.

Tony was a genuine, funny and good-natured guy. He was happiest at his home in Melrose that he lived in for over 45 years. He was a true family man, devoted to his wife Maureen for over 56 years. Tony was a fantastic dancer and he and Maureen were always a highlight to watch at weddings and parties as they took to the floor. He was a terrific cook, especially his homemade pizza on Friday nights with friends and family. Tony would play his favorite Sinatra music, pour some red wine and on more than one occasion, belt out some Opera with his strong voice. He was also an avid gardener and a voracious reader. He enjoyed growing his prolific tomatoes every year.

It was the impact that Tony made on others that will be forever remembered. His sense of humor, quick witted storytelling, love for life, and fun attitude brought everyone together. Tony maintained friends from his youth as well as across all times of his life; ask any of them and they would tell you they had a great “Tony story.” The backyard was a popular spot with Tony, cigar and martini in hand, enjoying time with family and friends. Tony loved a good time and all were welcome.

Tony and Maureen traveled frequently, with numerous trips to Italy, France and England, even going on a self-guided canal cruise through France. They also enjoyed many winter trips to Florida with cherished friends. A lover of all books, especially Mark Twain, he continued learning throughout much of his life, and kept journals on his life and travels.

Tony was a wonderful father to his only daughter, Elizabeth, schooling her early about art, literature, and music, even taking her to see Frank Sinatra in concert at age 10. Tony was a tremendous movie buff and loved sharing his cinematic insights with his daughter, with whom he shared “Double Indemnity” and “Treasure of the Sierra Madre” at probably too young an age. He was a proud father and supported his daughter throughout her career; wherever she was, he and Maureen traveled to visit for extended periods of time. Tony truly loved his son-in-law, Tom, engaging in many “high-spirited” discussions about politics and culture over a cocktail and cigar. Tony warmly welcomed Tom into his family where they genuinely enjoyed each other’s company for many years.

Tony lived a full and wonderful life; the only sadness was seeing many friends and family pass before him. Tony will be sorely missed, but lovingly remembered for his great sense of humor and zest for life.

Tony was the loving husband of Maureen G. (Hilton) Flammia with whom he shared nearly 58 years of marriage. Devoted father of Elizabeth Flammia Rosato and her husband, Thomas, of Barrington, RI. Cherished grandfather of Elizabeth Grace Rosato. Dear brother of Barbara Bradley and her husband, James, of Massachusetts; and brother-in-law of the late Dorothy “Candi” Sieswerda and her surviving husband, Paul, of Stoneham. Caring uncle of Paul L. Sieswerda, and Jeffrey Sieswerda, Manassah Bradley, Lisa Hines, James Bradley Jr., Erin Bradley.

Relatives and friends were invited to gather during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Thursday, Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m., and again for his funeral service on Friday, Sept. 10 at 10:30 a.m. Out of respect for public health, all are kindly asked to wear face masks. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Italian Home for Children, www.italianhome.org/about-italian-home/.