Anthony M. Gatta 1932-2021

Those who knew Anthony were touched by his kindness and willingness to help. Proficient in construction, electronics and computers, his handyman duties included remodeling homes, building kitchen cabinets, plumbing, repairing cars and laptops for his family and relatives.

He was a loving husband to Roslyn “Roz” Marino. They were married on Oct. 11, 1958. Following her passing on Nov. 5, 2016, he kept two poster boards of photos of her in front of his favorite household spot — his living room recliner — for constant viewing.

He strongly encouraged the writing careers of daughter, Nancilyn, and son, John. Through him, they developed a passion for music, travel and helping others. Anthony and, before her passing, Roz consistently attended every theatrical production and music performance that included his children and could frequently be seen at sports events that involved his nieces and nephews. He also supported his daughter-in-law Maureen’s creative endeavors.

He enjoyed smoking cigars, trying his luck at slot machines in casinos around the country and playing sports. He bowled for many years in a league at McKinley Lanes. As the onetime owner of Jimmie’s Inn, he sponsored and played on its softball team. As a member of the Youngstown Air Force Base (now known as Youngstown Air Reserve Station) 910th Tactical Force Volleyball Team, he earned a Bronze Medal during a tournament at Westover Air Reserve Base.

He was born Jan. 26, 1932, in Niles, the son of Pasquale and Antoinette Toriello Gatta.

He was a 1950 graduate of Niles McKinley High School, worked a short time as a carpenter and then was employed at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station (originally the Youngstown Air Force Base) for 40 years as a mechanic, head of maintenance control, and retired as Chief Master Sergeant in 1993. Later, he worked for the Trumbull County Board of Elections.

A humble man, Anthony was proud of his military service but he rarely made it known that he served in the Air Force and Air Force Reserves. He learned computer basics and programming while working for the Air Force and purchased his first PC in the late 1980s. His knowledge made him the go-to IT guy for family and friends.

He was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church in Girard and Niles Knights of Columbus Council 1681.

He will be deeply missed by his two brothers, Lawrence Gatta and his wife Bertha of Niles and Norman Gatta of Niles; sister-in-law, Connie Gatta of Niles; and three generations of dozens of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Jerry Gatta and Dominick Gatta; a sister, Rose Aurillio; as well as sisters-in-law, Mickey and Santa Gatta.

Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles and 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday at St. Rose Catholic Church in Girard. Those coming to pay their respects during the funeral home’s continuous receiving line are highly encouraged to wear a mask.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday at St. Rose Catholic Church in Girard, where friends and family are encouraged to wear a mask by the family’s request.

Burial will be in Niles City Cemetery, where Anthony will be honored for his military service by the Trumbull County American Legion Honor Guard.

Arrangements are being handled by The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Anthony’s name to The Together Journey, 757 North Main St., Hubbard, OH 44425 or the Bummer Fund at 330-519-3152.

Family and friends can visit www.josephrossifuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Anthony’s family.

(special notice)