Obituary of Antonio Parisi

In 1928, in 'Vietri Sul Mare', (Glass on the Sea), a small picturesque town along the Amalfi Coast, in Italy, Tony was born of parents Rocco Parisi and Maria Cassetta. Years later, the family moved to Naples when his father became Chief of Police. Antonio, 'Tonino, or Tony', grew up with strict ethics and the survival skills needed to endure WWII, in which he found ways to help supplement his family during meager war rations. After the war, he was old enough to make his way into the world by becoming a Merchant Marine. Sailing the globe and discovering new lands throughout Europe, South America, Asia, South Pacific and finally North America contributed to his intellectual library of languages. Loving the experiences and new cultures Tony was able to learn five languages: French, German, Spanish, Japanese and English, all of which he retained, (very sharply), his entire life. He finally settled in America in the 1950's and called New York his home for many years. There, he met and married his first wife Rose Giannone, married from 1956-1969, and had one child, Roxanne. He later moved to Los Angeles, California and where he met, and fell in love with Giovanna Ascione. Tony and ‘Vanna’ married on June 25th, 1972, and adopted Giovanna's only child, daughter, Carol. Antonio raised Carol as his own. They remained married to 'Vanna' until her death in 2007. Tony’s unyielding love, patience and compassion knew no bounds, and I have been blessed to be able witness it. An accomplished Chef and restaurateur, who worked in the business of food well over 50yrs, his love and passion for food was only superseded by his love of his family and friends. His believed that gathering at the table and sharing a meal was where life's joys and sorrows were truly shared. "It's all about the food and how you prepare it, when it is done with love it will always be delizioso!” Living on his own at his Senior Living facility he met and made many good friends, who all brought joy to him with great stories and always having a zest for life. He has joined his wife Vanna in Heaven but is survived by his loving family: daughter, Carol Hilton and husband, Tom (who was like his own son), granddaughter, Nicole Hilton, (and fiancé Thomas Pape), granddaughter Victoria Hilton, nephew, Victory Bell and nieces, Erika Bell, (son Cameron), Shawn DeStasio, (husband, Joe and children, Talia, Mia & Dominic). Also his family in Italy, his sister Anna Parisi, and daughter Marianna Baldessarre and family, niece Mara Ascione, (husband, Marcello Baldelli), and children Fabio, Cristina and Ricardo Baldelli. A great void has been left in our hearts, but we will celebrate his life with love and laughter gathered around the table. Baci a Papa!