Mr. Antonio D'Amico

Born in Cercemaggiore, Campobasso Italy

WATERBURY - It is with profound sadness that the family of Antonio “Musky” D’Amico, age 83, of Waterbury, share the news of his unexpected passing of their beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and uncle on Sunday, December 15th, 2024, from injuries sustained from an automobile accident. He was the husband of the late Carmela (Massarelli) D’Amico. 

Antonio was born in Cercemaggiore, Campobasso, Italy, the son of the late Isadoro and Maria Giovanna D’Amico, and was raised and educated in Italy, he spent several years working and living in Switzerland were he learned how to speak French before immigrating to the Waterbury area. Affectionately known as "Musky," a nickname inspired by Muskrat in the beloved Deputy Dog Cartoons, Antonio was a highly respected mason whose skilled hands shaped the walls and structures that stand proudly throughout Connecticut and the greater New England area. His dedication to his craft was rivaled only by his passion for life and the community he cherished.

In partnership with his lifelong friend Frank Rosa, Antonio co-founded Roma's Ristorante in Oakville. This beloved establishment blossomed into a culinary haven and further solidified his affection for bringing people together over good food and good company. Antonio’s zest for life extended well beyond his work; he was an avid gardener, enjoyed making homemade sausage and wine, and enjoyed the serene thrill of hunting and the camaraderie of bowling and charter fishing in addition to playing cards and watching soccer.  A proud member of the Cercemaggiore Club, Antonio relished the sport of golf, participating in their league with great joy and enthusiasm. He had a unique ability to transform any environment into a gathering of friends, often seen exploring the neighborhood's most unexpected restaurants, cafes, and bars, where his laughter and stories resonated with everyone around him. Antonio is survived by a loving community that will remember his kindness, wit, and unparalleled zest for life. His spirit will live on in the memories he created with those fortunate enough to call him a friend. Despite his prolific community spirit, what was most important to Musky was his devoted family, children, grandchildren, and siblings.

Left to honor his legacy and cherish his memory are his children: Vincenzo D’Amico and his girlfriend Alisha of New Milford, Antonio D’Amico Jr. of Torrington, Giovanna “Gigi” D’Amico and her longtime boyfriend Mike Cavallo of Waterbury and Sandy Miller and her husband, Richard of Louisiana. He also leaves his siblings, Carl D’Amico and his wife Nina of FL, as well as Michelina Distasi and her late husband Domenic of Watertown. He also leaves his eight adoring grandchildren, Michelle, Michael, Marisa, Avery, Dylan, Nicole, Stephanie, and Andrew, as well as his great-grandchildren, Vinny and Grace, in addition to several nieces, nephews, and many friends. 

Funeral services for Mr. D’Amico will be held on Saturday, December 21st, 2024, at 10:00 am when a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Disciples Parish, Saint Mary Magdalen Church, 4 Buckingham St Oakville. Those planning to attend are kindly asked to meet directly at the church. Entombment will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery Watertown. Friends and family are invited to gather Friday, December 20th, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St Waterbury. Members of the Cercemaggiore Club are asked to gather at the funeral home at 6:00pm. Loving kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence and share a memory or words of comfort with the family and friends of someone who was important to you. Please do that on the funeral home tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com.