Anthony Caminiti, Corona Civic Leader, Dead at 100

Served Army & Community With Valor

Corona native Anthony Caminiti, who served for many years as the chairman of Community Board 4’s Parks Committee, died on Saturday, Feb. 18 just weeks after celebrating his 100th birthday.

Long-time Corona activist Anthony Caminiti (at right) was 99 when he received a lifetime achievement award from Queens Borough President Helen Marshall (at center) during her State of the Borough address in January 2011. They are pictured along with Carol Hunt, former executive director of the Jamaica Service Program for Older Adults, who was also honored at the address. Caminiti died last month just weeks after celebrating his 100th birthday, Marshall’s office announced.

Queens Borough President Helen Marshall expressed her sorrow on the passing of Caminiti in a statement issued last Tuesday, Feb. 21.

“Tony Caminiti was the epitome of a community activist,” Marshall said. “Any problem that came to his attention was addressed immediately and he reached out to all his neighbors witha compassionate heart and a helping hand. Tony was a personal friend and mentor whose example of public service stood out as a model for all to follow.

Caminiti celebrated his 100th birthday in December 2011 with family, friends and community leaders. He was a U.S. Army veteran who served during World War II in the European Theater of Operations with the 42nd Rainbow Division. He was part of the division when it liberated the Dachau concentration camp.

For his service in combat, Caminiti earned the Bronze Star for bravery as well as the Combat Ifantry Badge. Following his time in the Army, he became an advocate for veterans and was a member of the American Legion and the Flanders Field VFW Post 150.

Known for his endless energy, Caminiti served on dozens of community organizations as a driving force and a moral compass, Marshall remembered. He was the longesttenured member of Board 4, having served them for 40 years.

“As president of the Northside Democratic Club, he helped forged community bonds that endure to this day,” Marshall added.

The late civic leader was also a member of the Corona Lions Club, the St. Leo’s Holy Name Society and St. Leo’s Catholic War Veterans group; he also served the Corona church as an usher during Sunday Masses.

Caminiti was the husband of the late Josephine, for whom Corona Playground-located at 102nd Street and Corona Avenue-was renamed in her memory in June 2006. He is survived by his three daughters, Virginia Yaniro, Rita Lumia and Nancy Carrano, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial was offered on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at St. Leo’s Church, Corona, followed by interment at Mount St. Mary’s Cemetery, Flushing, under the direction of Guida Funeral Home, 47-20 104th St., Corona.