CARTHAGE - Tony J. Palladino, 89, 716 Alexandria St., passed away at the Carthage Area Hospital on Sunday, May 22, 2016, surrounded by his family.
Tony was born on June 13, 1926 in Watertown, a son of Frank & Mary Palladino. He graduated from Carthage High School in 1944. On November 27, 1948 Tony married the love of his life, Kathryn Gerace.
Tony was a "Greatest Generation" man; he grew up in Deferiet, worked at the St. Regis Paper mill while still in high school and immediately joined the United States Army and served in World War II, from 1944 1946. Following his basic training in Georgia, he was assigned to the 410th Infantry Regiment. He served in the 103rd Infantry Division, known as the "Cactus Division". The Division arrived in France on Armistice Day and the long days of fighting began. T-Sgt. Palladino saw combat in France, Germany and Austria. He received several medals, including the Combat Infantry Badge, the European Theatre with three campaign stars, the Victory Medal, German Occupation, American Defense, Good Conduct and the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross. He was most proud of his Bronze Star medal, which he was awarded for exemplary conduct in ground combat against the armed enemy. When asked about the war, Tony always responded that he remembered being scared, hungry and cold.
Following the War, he returned to his hometown of Deferiet and went back to work at the St. Regis Paper Co. as a machinist. He retired in 1988 after 45 years of service. He enjoyed gardening, woodworking and spending time with his family. He was everyone's "Go - To" person and could fix anything. He was loved by all and will be missed.
Besides his wife, Kathryn, Tony is survived and was dearly loved by several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his son, Tony, his parents as well as his brother and sister.
A funeral service with Military Honors will be held on Thursday, May 26th at 11:00 AM in the Chapel of the Lundy Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc., 500 State St., Carthage. Memorial donations may be made to the Carthage Area Hospital Foundation, 3 Bridge St., West Carthage, NY 13619.