Obituary of Anthony Mattei

Anthony Mattei, 98

Veteran WWII and NYC Highway Worker.

Lifelong Staten Islander Anthony Mattei, a retired laborer and equipment operator for N.Y.C. Department of Highways, died peacefully on Friday evening at Bridgeway Long Term Care Facility, Hillsborough, N.J.

Born in New Brighton, he graduated from McKee High School. He lived his whole life on the North Shore of Staten Island. Anthony (Tony) worked for the City for 28 years. Upon retiring he worked at various jobs, included the Oaks Housing in maintenance and as a driver for various banks in NYC.

Tony served 4 years in the Army. He went to auto mechanic school and was deployed to New Guinea and the Islands Morti and Finaly.  He liberated the Philippines (Mindanao) as part of MacArthur's Army.  He received the American Service Medal, Asiatic - Pacific S.M. with BZ A/head, Philippines Liberation Ribbon, and WWII Victory Medal.  He served as a second scout with the Dixie Division 31 Infantry under General Douglas MacArthur's command.

Upon returning to Staten Island, he married Anna Kensey of Stapleton. They were married fifty-three years. She passed away in 2001.

Tony enjoyed bowling, dancing, cooking, playing the ponies, everything about horse racing, working around the yard, and helping his neighbors. He especially loved talking to people. He was much loved and will be sorely missed by his family and friends. May God bless you, Dad.

Surviving are three sons, Anthony, Dennis, and Michael; five grandchildren and three great grandchildren, and 3 honorary sons, Edward, Salvatore, and George.

Funeral from the Matthew Funeral Home Inc., 2508 Victory Blvd., on Wednesday at 11:00 AM. An interment will follow in Silver Mount Cemetery.  Family and friends may visit on Tuesday from 2:00 to 9:00 PM.