Anthony Joseph Gaccetta

Born on September 15th, 1935, in Dayton, Ohio, Tony was the beloved son of the late Vito and Rose Gaccetta.

Tony attended Chaminade High School in Dayton, Ohio where he graduated in the class of 1954. From 1959 to 1963, Tony served in the US Air Force in Aviano, Italy, where he met his first wife, Marilena Thompson who he raised three children with.

Tony received an associate degree in business from Miami-Jacobs College. Working in his parents’ restaurant, Tony started cooking when he was 13. By age 40, he was recognized by the American Chef Institute as a certified chef who later honored Chef Tony with their prestigious American Heritage Award.

Following in his father Vito’s footsteps, for over 50 years, Chef Tony put his business and culinary skills to work as owner of the popular Dayton restaurants Vito’s Venice Inn and Tony Gaccetta’s before serving as the much-loved head chef at Bethany Lutheran Village, a senior living community.

In addition to mentoring hundreds of employees throughout his career, Tony also gave generously of his time and talents to the community, including the American Legion and Optimists International where he served as club president and was recognized for his outstanding leadership.

In 2002 Tony and his wife Melody moved to Marco Island, FL to retire where they made new lifelong friends and Tony enjoyed cooking, painting, and woodworking.

A Celebration of Life memorial service is scheduled for 11 am on February 2nd at the Marco Island Veteran’s Park, 901 Park Ave, Marco Island, FL followed by a reception next door at the Italian Deli & Market that will conclude at 1:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Jude in his memory.