Anthony William Ciaravino

Mr. Anthony William "Tony" Ciaravino passed away on November 18, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 78. Born on December 6, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, Tony was the third of four children of Anthony Ciaravino and Mary (Ciaravino) DiPasquale. He grew up on the south side of Chicago alongside his siblings Gaspare, Marie, and Angelo, where he developed a lifelong love for the White Sox, Da' Bears, and Italian beef sandwiches.

At the age of 16, Tony began his working life as a stock boy at F.W. Woolworth's, a job his mother helped him secure. By the time he was 21, he had risen to manage the Des Plaines branch. It was at Woolworth's where he met Gloria, who would become his beloved wife of 56 years. Together, they built a life centered around family and love, raising four children: Anthony Jr., Michael, Brian, and Lisa.

In 1980, Tony and Gloria relocated their family to San Antonio, Texas. Though far from his roots in Chicago, he remained deeply connected to his family, calling his mother every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. sharp. His devotion to family extended into every aspect of his life. He was a dedicated Little League coach when his children were young and became affectionately known as “Mr. Lovely” for leading crowds in spirited cheers punctuated by cartwheels. Whether it was a baseball or basketball game, a stage performance, or a cheer competition, Tony never missed an opportunity to support his children.

Tony’s pride in his children only grew with the arrival of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He cherished each moment spent with them. "Papa" always greeted them with warm hugs, words of encouragement, and a signature $20 bill slipped into their hands. His joy was rooted in togetherness; nothing made him happier than being surrounded by family.

For nearly four decades, Tony worked at Gunn Automotive in San Antonio. A consummate professional with an infectious sense of humor and an unmatched work ethic, he brought joy to colleagues and customers alike. Known for his quick wit and legendary birthday book, Tony made it a point to call countless friends and acquaintances on their birthdays just to say hello and share good wishes. He could sell “a ketchup popsicle to a guy wearing white gloves”, but it was never about the sale; it was always about the relationships.

Tony also served his country with honor as a U.S. Army and Air Force reservist. In later years, he dedicated himself to supporting fellow veterans through volunteer work at The Fisher House every Sunday for ten years and as a board member of The San Antonio Coalition for Veterans & Families.

He loved singing and dancing, especially with Gloria, and never passed up an opportunity to celebrate. A man who never met a stranger and lit up every room he entered, Tony lived fully until the very end.

Tony is survived by his devoted wife Gloria; their children: Anthony Ciaravino Jr. and his wife Asia; Michael Ciaravino and his wife Bethany; Brian Ciaravino; and Lisa Campos and her husband Pete; grandchildren: Anjelika and her husband Mike, Nicholas, Vincent, Sophia, Stella, Leila, and Jace; great-grandchildren: Harrison, Luca, Amara, and Eisley; best dog ever, Beau; loving in-laws Jana Groda, Melissa Ciaravino, and Nicci Schuknecht; siblings Gaspare; Angelo and his wife Maryann; sister Marie and her partner Michael; sisters-in-law Carol Bock and Bonnie Weiss; nieces and nephews Maria, Gina, Tony, Raymond, John, Anthony (Gelo), and Tracee; cousins Juanita Mason-Fegley and Anthony Carvotta; as well as many great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Mary; his stepfather, Fred DiPasquale; his father and mother-in-law, John and Ines Sykes; and his brothers and sisters-in-law, Irv Bock, Jeff Weiss, Cathy Sykes, and Sharon Ciaravino.

Tony's legacy is one of laughter shared freely, love given generously, work done proudly, and family held above all else. His absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew him, but also a powerful example to follow: work hard; sing loudest at someone’s birthday; cry if you must, but laugh too; love big; love everyone, and make sure they know it.

May his memory bring comfort and laughter to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Honorary pallbearers: Jay Carver, Hunter Hale, Mark Hennigan, Bobby O'Brien, Tim Rivers, and Craig Simpson.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully encourages everyone to donate in Tony's honor to The San Antonio Coalition for Veterans & Families.