Anthony R. Gargano, age 96, of Spring Grove, passed away Thursday, November 3, 2016, at JourneyCare of Woodstock.

He was born December 7, 1919 in Chicago to Ralph and Ida (Cerone) Gargano. Raised in Chicago, Anthony entered the U.S. Navy during World War II. While aboard the Freighter SS Sawikla, the ship was torpedoed and went down, and Anthony became a P. O. W. from 1942-1945. Interned in Japan at Hakodate prison camp, he served hard labor. Upon his eventual release, he returned home on the USS Hyde, and was awarded a number of commendations, including the Purple Heart ribbon.

Following his military service, Anthony began working at the restaurant at Elliot’s Pine Log, where he was manager for over 35 years. He later became a vital member of the staff of the Our Lady of Ransom Church, working for 15 years there doing anything required of him in the field of maintenance, set up and clean up for the ongoing activities of the church and school. He and his wife relocated to Spring Grove in 2007.

During his lifetime he enjoyed gardening and working around the house. He also enjoyed carpentry projects.

Anthony is survived by two children, Alexandra “Lexi” Gargano of Spring Grove and George (Ann) Gargano of Chicago; five grandchildren, Margaret Hansen of McHenry, Anthony Gargano of Chicago, George Gargano Jr. of Brookfield, Annie (Brian) Hosetter of Berwyn, Daniel (Kerry) Gargano of Chicago; and great-grandchildren, Samantha, Amanda, Alex, Delilah, Jeffrey, and Jack.

In addition to his parents, Anthony was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Julia, on May 27, 2008; four brothers and two sisters.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Monday at Justen Funeral Home & Crematory, 3700 Charles J. Miller Road, McHenry, IL 60050. Following visitation, the procession will leave the funeral home for the funeral Mass at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 3500 W. Washington Street, McHenry, IL 60050. Interment will be in St. Peter’s Cemetery, Spring Grove.

Memorials may be directed to American Legion Cantigny Post 556, 1S151 Winfield Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189.

For information, please call the funeral home at 815-385-2400, or visit www.justenfh.com, where friends may leave an on-line condolence message for his family.

Funeral Home:
Justen Funeral Home & Crematory
3700 Charles J Miller Road
McHenry, IL
United States 60050