Obituary: Anthony Joseph “Tony” Polaski, 99, of East Haven

Obituary courtesy of Porto Funeral Home:

Anthony Joseph “Tony” Polaski, 99, of East Haven, CT entered into eternal life on December 30th, 2022 in Branford Hills Health Care Center. He was born in New Haven on February 18th, 1923, the son of the late Alexander and Mary DeCesare Polaski. He was predeceased by his devoted wife, Florence DePetto Polaski, with whom he shared 73 years of marriage, his son Robert A. Polaski, his brother Martin Polaski, and his uncle, Augustine “Danny” DeCesare, with whom he shared a close relationship.

Anthony enjoyed a long, meaningful life, raising three children, and was entirely dedicated to his family and friends. He was a loving husband, father, and friend to all…with a huge heart and unique personality. A true “renaissance man” of the Greatest Generation, he amassed a wealth of experience, wisdom, and proficiency in so many areas of life. Tony was a veteran of WWII, a naval officer and signalman, who would inspire us all with his prolific accounts of his experiences throughout his wartime career. He was also an avid and dedicated employee of U.S. Steel Co. in New Haven, where he worked for several years. Tony also earned a noteworthy reputation as a repairman. He had an amazing talent for fixing radios, televisions, cars, and later on…even computers with his late, eldest son Robert. Known by his friends and family as “Tony the TV Man," he was always there to lend a helping hand whenever needed, and his limitless abilities amazed us all.

In addition, Tony sincerely enjoyed spending time with loved ones, talking, telling old stories, or playing cards. He also shared a remarkable gift in common with his late wife, Florence…he loved to cook! So many of us fondly remember his unique, special recipes for Italian friselle, pepperoni bread, and homemade pizza. An experienced meat cutter, he also taught us a great deal about selecting the best cuts of meat at the store or butchers. Those of us who knew and loved him remember many wonderful times with Tony and Florence, along with countless holidays, events, and festive occasions. The two of them also enjoyed many church activities together. They were both exquisite dancers and were always considered the life of the party wherever they would go. Tony was a man who treasured his family above all else, and he spent his life teaching these values and many talents to his children and loved ones.

To say that Anthony inspired many hearts in his long life is a vast understatement. He is and will always be dearly remembered in the hearts of all who loved him, especially his surviving family: his devoted daughter Marianne U. Williams, his son David J. Polaski, and four grandchildren: Andrea, Alisa, Kristina, and Dominic. Two great-grandchildren, along with several other relatives survive as well, especially his devoted nieces Cathy Borsella and Sylvia Vaccino.

Family and friends are invited to A Mass of Christian Burial FRIDAY afternoon at St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish in Our Lady of Pompeii Church at 12:30. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. THERE WILL BE NO CALLING HOURS. Arrangements are in care of the PORTO FUNERAL HOME 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte. 80) East Haven. In lieu of gifts or flowers, the family kindly asks everyone to keep them in their prayers during these difficult times. They warmly thank friends and relatives for all of their love and support.