Anthony Ianniciello
February 17, 1924 - December 6, 2005
Obituary
Anthony Ianniciello, February 17, 1924 – December 6, 2005. Son of Maria Donata and Miguel, this Seattle-born Italian Tenor, spent the last 81 years living a full life. He joined the Navy, serving in the South Pacific Theater, returning to Seattle as a decorated veteran of WWII to run his family farmed produce business, now run by his grandson, Tomy. Tony started singing at a young age, at his parents’ produce stand in the Pike Place Market. He was later discovered by a music professor who overheard Tony singing in his produce truck. He starred as “The Most Happy Fella” around the area and also played in numerous advertisements. Tony loved to fish and hunt. He took pride in creating his colorful back yard garden which was well used for his annual Seafair Party. He had a passion for a good cigar and he loved his ’72 Buick Riviera. He could charm and cajole and had a soft spot for the underdog. He is survived by his wife, Nora; daughters, Diane Parrott Randy, Debbie Ianniciello, Pennie Clark Ianniciello and Toni Lee Dale Mike; nine grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; sister Julia Occhino; daughter-in-law, Sue and his beloved cat, Tux. Anthony was preceded in death by his wives, Dee and Darlene and son, Anthony Jr. Joe. Visitation will be held on Friday, 12/09/05 from 12:00 Noon – 8:00PM. Vigil Service will be held on Friday at 7:00 PM. Funeral Service will be held on Saturday at 1:00 PM at BONNEY-WATSON Washington Memorial, 16445 International Blvd., SeaTac, WA 206 242-1787.
Tony always had a smile for us neighborhood kids when he delivered produce to the Ross Park Grocery. We helped unload crates and he treated us to fresh fruit. One day three of us travelled along on his route – riding in the back of the truck, helping unload at every stop. Several of us went to see him perform – and he was happily surprised to see teenagers attending an opera. Tony even got us summer jobs at one of the purveyors along “produce row” on South Occidental. We enjoyed his laugh, his stories, and his love for life. Tony was a very special person!
I am sorry to hear about your loss, you do not know me but as I came across your information it truly touched me, for you to lose a loved one and such a nice looking gentlemen, but I wanted to offer some encouragement that helped me at Revelation 21:3&4 please read this when you a chance.
My Deepest Sympathy,
Joanne
I never met Tony, but he sounded like a man full of the love of life! I know his daughter, Toni; from reading Tony’s obituary, know where Toni got her humor and positive outlook on life! My deepest sympathies to the family.
The notice about Tony brought back many fond memories for Nell. Sorry to hear about his passing
I AM VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS TONY AND I WERE CONNECTED IN MANY WAYS, PRODUCE,HORSE RACING FOR EXAMPLE. HE WILL BE MISSED.
It was a blessing to have known Tony for the last 25 yrs. I started out as a new produce customer of his and from there I was hooked. He displayed incredible honour and carisma. I enjoyed his Seafair parties,our time at the track together and the weekends to Portland to play the dogs. He will truely be missed by all that was touched by his being. My deepest sympathy goes out to friends and most of all to the surviving family of Tony. God bless to all, he will live on.