Anthony C. "Chappy" Romano's Obituary
Mr. Anthony C. "Chappy" Romano, age 92, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, August 20, 2010 at the Francis House in Syracuse. He was born on September 20, 1917, the son of late Joseph T. and Carmella (Clemente) Romano. As a young man Anthony's first job was with New York Railroad Company working with his dad and brother and later became a milkman for Brookfield Dairy. After acquiring a property on what is today known as "Automobile Row" in Syracuse, he launched Chappy's Auto Sales. Eventually he purchased several new car dealerships becoming the first dealer in Syracuse to own multiple franchises. Chappy's greatest accomplishment and what he took the most pride in was the many people who worked for him an went on to have success in the automobile industry. He was recently saddened by the passing of Al Klaben who began working for Chappy and went on to own a very successful string of dealerships in Ohio. After selling his last dealership, Romano Oldsmobile, in 1982, Chappy stayed busy with commercial real estate properties he owned in the area. Chappy was also a gifted artist and enjoyed painting pictures which he gave to his family and friends. He was past president of Oldsmobile Board of Governors, #1 Olds Dealer in NY State and served on the board of Cicero bank. He will always be remembered by his family as the ultimate people person having touched many lives in a positive way. He was formerly married to Maria Estelle Rivera. Surviving daughters and sons-in-law, Michele Romano of Solvay, Karen (Gregg) Kidd of Manlius and Barbara (Matthew) Wadach of Camillus: Grandchildren, John Berardi, Leslie (Thomas) Azzolino, Elizabeth (Richard) Bartlett , Brandon, Jeremy, Carly Kidd, Luke, Michael Wadach: five great-grandchildren. Also survived by three sisters Mary Romano of Solvay, Lucy (Rocco) DeLuca of Camillus, Natalie (Emmanuel) Campanile of Skaneateles; and sister-in-law, Bopnne (Joseph) Romano of Camillus: many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by three sisters, Rose Lombardo, Helen Pirro, Catherine Tarolli: brothers, John and Joseph Romano and nephew, "Joey" Romano. Chappy was a wonderful father, grandfather, uncle and brother, he will be deeply missed by all. Visitation will be held on Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. at the Thomas J. Pirro Funeral Home. His funeral will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Entombment will take place in Greenlawn Cemetery in Warners, NY. The guidance and sincere compassion shared by the staff and volunteers of Francis house are greatly appreciated. A sincere thank you to Anthony's niece, Mary Lou Baichi, and all the many friends and family that visited Chappy at Francis House for their prayers and support. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Francis House, 108 Michaels Avenue, Syracuse NY 13208.
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