Obituary of Anthony J. Schillaci

Colonie - Anthony J. (Tony) Schillaci, 84, passed away peacefully at home Monday April 23rd, 2012. He is survived by his wife Antoinette (Anne) of over 60 years, sons Michael, Vincent (Lindy) & Thomas and daughter Terri (Bob Newell) and grandson Benjamin and sister Rose. Predeceased by his father Marriano (Frank) and mother Sarah Gatto Schillaci and sisters Anna Betar and Mary Schillaci. Tony proudly served his country in the Navy Seabees in the South Pacific. Tony was a self-made entrepreneur and the founder of Carbonic Sales and Service. In the early days he sold restaurant owners the idea of using postmix syrup dispensing systems rather then many bottles and cans. He was an ardent collector of Coca Cola memorabilia and became the largest collector in the area, in March of 1980 a fire destroyed his collection and his business location. Thru hard work and family support he re built the business and retired in 1995. At that time he and his wife traveled the country extensively in their motorhome traveling between their properties in West Palm Beach Florida & Mesa Arizona. Tony is a life member of the West Albany #2 Volunteer Fire Company, a charter member of the Colonie Elks #2192, A proud member of the Sons of Italy, Past President of the Colonie Lions Club, Past Vice President of the National Beverage Dispensing Equipment Association. Tony also owned and operated "On the Shelf" a cocktail lounge in the Dewitt Clinton Hotel in the early and mid 80's. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 9:00 o'clock Friday morning at Blessed Sacrament Church, 607 Central Ave., Albany. Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery in Menands. Friends are invited to visit with Tony's family on Thursday from 4 - 8 p.m. at the Reilly & Son Funeral Home, Colonie. For those who wish, memorial contributions to the charity of one's choice would be appreciated.