In Loving Memory of Anthony Milano

January 19, 1944 – April 12, 2025

Anthony Milano, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away on April 11, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He was 81.

Born and raised in the Bronx, Anthony embodied everything it meant to be a New Yorker: tough, loyal, full of heart, and never short on a good story. He carried that Bronx spirit with him throughout his life, always proud of where he came from and the values it instilled in him.

Anthony’s life was defined by a relentless work ethic and a deep love for his family. Anthony’s entrepreneurial spirit led him down many paths. After moving to Connecticut, he and his family opened Milano’s Deli at the Danbury Fair Mall, and later at the North Street Shopping Center in 1976. It was there that he instilled in his son, Brian, the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic. In 1982 he purchased ZiMario’s Italian Restaurant, yet another chapter in his journey of bringing people together through food.

Later, Anthony and Brian opened Milano’s Deli and Pasta in Coral Springs, Florida, before returning to New York to open a Milano’s Deli in Yorktown Heights in 1988. He ran the shop for nearly a decade and found pure joy in spoiling his grandchildren with fresh mozzarella and prosciutto during their visits.

In 2016, Anthony moved to Texas to be closer to his family and had the joy of spending time with his first great-granddaughter, whom he adored. That time brought him peace and a deeper connection with the family he cherished most.

Anthony was known for his quick wit, strong will, and charming personality. He loved to laugh, loved to reminisce, and never missed a chance to share a story about his adventures and the friends who shaped his life. He found joy in the everyday, his work, his cars, and his home, but nothing meant more to him than the people he loved.

He passed down his favorite recipes and traditions to his son and grandchildren, teaching them how to make his signature sauce, homemade manicotti, lasagna, antipasti, and more. Every meal was a celebration, a way to connect, and a reflection of the love he carried for his Italian roots.

Anthony is survived by his loving son, Brian Milano; his grandson, Collin Milano; his granddaughter, Kendall VanBrocklin and her husband, Kyle; and three beautiful great-granddaughters. He is also survived by his niece, Karen LaPreziosa; his nephew, Richard LaPreziosa; many cousins and dear friends, including his former wife, Kathleen Coe, and her husband Joseph Coe.

He is predeceased by his beloved sister, Phyllis LaPreziosa, and her husband, Richard, two of his closest companions in life. Phyllis and Anthony shared a bond built on daily phone calls, endless teasing, laughter, and unconditional love. Anthony is also reunited with his parents, Aurelio Milano and Marie Esposito, whose memory he carried with him every day.

His legacy lives on in every dish shared, every story retold, and every laugh echoed around the table. He will be deeply missed, and forever remembered as “the man” by those who loved him most, and his signature saying, “Poppy loves you,” will echo in their hearts forever.

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