Pate, Anthony R.

Anthony R. Pate, age 100, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2025, at South Shore Hospital in Weymouth. Born on December 14, 1924, in Erie, PA, he was a man who lived a full and accomplished life.

Anthony, affectionately known as Tony to his friends and loved ones, was the cherished son of the late Gaestano T. Paterniti and Frances Paterniti. He was a devoted brother to Richard Paterniti of CT and predeceased by siblings Angeline J. Paterniti and Thomas W. Paterniti. Tony’s life was enriched by his beloved wife of 67 years, J. Daneene Pate (Konarski), and he was a proud father to daughters Dawn M. Hanlon of Canton and Sheryl A. Peebles of Weymouth. His legacy continues through his adored grandchildren, Cristina E. Fernberg, Ryan P. Hanlon, and Kyle M. Hanlon, and great-grandchildren Grace Emory Fernberg and Liam Thomas Fernberg, who will cherish his memory.

Tony’s journey through education was marked by excellence. After graduating from Erie High School, he bravely enlisted in the Army Air Corps at the tender age of 17. His thirst for knowledge led him to the University of Minnesota, where he studied meteorology in Minneapolis in 1943. He went on to serve as a communication officer in Germany during World War II. He furthered his education at the University of Pittsburgh, earning a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from 1945 to 1948. Tony’s pursuit of excellence continued at M.I.T, where he obtained his master’s in electrical engineering between 1949 and 1950. His academic accomplishments culminated at Canisius College, where he graduated summa cum laude with an MBA from 1970 to 1972.

Throughout his career, Tony made significant contributions as a senior electrical engineer at Bell Aerospace from 1956 to 1978. His expertise was further recognized when he joined Northrop Corporation, where from 1978 to 1993 he served as a project manager, playing a pivotal role in the development of the Amram missile expanding to all branches of military around the world. He also worked on the Patriot Missile and B2 Bomber.

Tony’s interests were as diverse as they were passionate. He was an avid sports fan, with a particular love for bowling, football, and baseball. His dedication to his favorite teams, the Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots, was evident through his long-standing status as a New England Patriots season ticket holder. Tony also admired the legacy of Knute Rockne and was a fervent supporter of the University of Notre Dame football team.

His commitment to community service was unwavering. Tony served on the Canton Finance Committee for over 10 years and provided his time as an election poll worker for the town of Canton for many years. His dedication to his community was further shown through his leadership as the head of the Energy and Finance Committees in Canton from 1990 to 2000.

Anthony R. Pate will be remembered as a man of great intellect and deep faith. His contributions to his family, his work, and his community have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Tony’s life was a testament to the enduring power of dedication, love, and kindness. He will be profoundly missed, yet his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Visiting hours at the Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home, 455 Washington Street, Sunday from 2-5 p.m. Funeral Mass in St. Oscar Romero Church, on Monday at 10 a.m. Burial St. Mary’s Cemetery, Canton.

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Posted by Canton Citizen on Jan 30 2025. Filed under Obituaries. Both comments and pings are currently closed.