Enzo Antonelli

On Saturday, January 7th, 2023, Enzo Antonelli, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather
and friend, passed away at the age of 90. Enzo was born on May 8th, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois
to Ansuino and Piera (Fanoli) Antonelli. He grew up in the Mission District of San Francisco with
his younger sister Marie (Piazza), and attended Sacred Heart High School. Enzo was a proud
member of the Salesian Boys’ Club, a place he held dear to his heart, having formed treasured
memories and friendships he maintained throughout his adult life.
Following his graduation at the University of San Francisco, Enzo enlisted in the United States
Army, achieving the rank of 1st Lieutenant. While stationed in Germany, he met Lucille
(Castellano), and the two married in 1957. Together, they raised one son (Anthony), and one
daughter (Kara).
After his tour of duty, Enzo joined the faculty at Saunders Trades and Technical High School in
Yonkers, New York as an English teacher. He had a gift for teaching, and his penchant for
literature, combined with his sense of humor, created a lasting impression on his students. Upon
his retirement in 1992, Enzo was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by the New York State
United Teachers in recognition of his faithful and dedicated service to the students and staff at
Saunders.
He made many friends during his time at Saunders whom he loved dearly, including Jim Reilly,
Frank Iarossi, and Lou Salamone. Every Thursday, Enzo and his friends would go out for lunch
at Arthur Avenue, the “Little Italy of the Bronx,” as part of their ROMEO club (Retired Old Men
Eating Out). Enzo also enjoyed golfing, something he coached at Saunders, as well as fishing,
cooking, listening to classical music, and sipping on his famous martini order.
Enzo had a passion for reading, something his buckling bookshelves could attest to, with some
of his favorite authors being Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Edgar Allan Poe, and Lee Child. He was a
writer at heart, whether it be through poetry, journaling, or love notes to his family. Enzo will
always be remembered for his vibrant personality, dry sense of humor, quick wit, funny stories,
generous spirit, and big heart. He will be missed tremendously by his family and friends.
Enzo Antonelli was preceded in death by his father Ansuino, mother Piera, and son Christopher.
He is survived by his wife Lucille, daughter Kara (Andrew), granddaughter Jena (Ryan),
granddaughter Amanda, son Anthony (Shawn), grandson Anthony (Becky), great
granddaughter Amaya, great grandson Marcello, sister Marie, niece Sharon, and nephew
Charlie Joe (Linda).
“We did our business today. Buried a friend of many years, a buddy, a colleague, counselor and
mentor. This was the last goodbye, and I choked a little when I realized how permanent this
was. And then I, and all of us, just went away to do the things the living do.” - Enzo Antonelli