Anthony Gianunzio

Tony Gianunzio, age 96, died Saturday, June 29 in an Orlando, FL hospital, separated from his wife, friends and family. He had been ill for a few months. Tony was born in Iron Mountain, Michigan to Nunzio and Isabella (D'Alphonso) Gianunzio. An aspiring baseball player, he lost his chance to try out with the Chicago Cubs upon the outbreak of WWII. Tony enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and served in the Pacific during the war. Upon returning to Michigan he began a 30+ year teaching career in the Portage High School system and at KVCC. Tony was a dedicated and beloved teacher who captivated and inspired countless students. In 2000, he married Carolyn with whom he enjoyed traveling and doing the daily crossword puzzle. Tony was an avid sports fan, thinker, poet and the author of the WWII memoir, The Last Romantic War. He was a social butterfly who loved nothing more than talking with everyone he encountered. He is survived by his devoted wife, one sister, numerous nieces and nephews and a vast community of friends. He will be sorely missed. Burial will be in Iron Mountain on Tuesday, July 9. A memorial service will be held in Kalamazoo. Information TBA on his Facebook page when a date has been fixed.