Tony Brunetta, Longtime Head of Village Rec Department, Dies

Anthony Brunetta, known as "Mr. B." to nearly everyone, died on Aug. 5. He was 85.

Mr. B was a lifelong resident of Rockville Centre and superintendant of the village recreation department for more than 35 years.

“Rockville Centre has not only lost a dedicated public servant, but also a dear friend,” said Mayor Francis X. Murray. “Mr. Brunetta was a fixture at our Recreation Center and has touched the lives of countless residents. His warm smile and the dignity in which he treated everyone can never be replicated. He will be missed, but we are grateful to have had him on our team for over five decades.”

He was a proud veteran who served in the Army in the Korean War. Beloved husband of the late Ethel (nee: Smith). Loving and devoted father of Anthony (Roberta), Frank, Joseph and the late Thomas. Adored grandfather of seven. Dear brother of Joseph (Caroline), the late Rose Croce and the late Frank. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Reposing will be at Macken Mortuary, Rockville Centre Chapel, at 52 Clinton Ave., from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday and Monday. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Agnes Cathedral at 11 a.m. Tuesday, followed by a private interment.

The Recreation Center will be closed on Tuesday in honor of Mr. B and so that employees may attend services. Summer Playground and all after-camp activities are canceled and will resume Wednesday.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Mr. B's name to the Hospice Care Network.

Tony Brunetta, right, with Rockville Centre Mayor Francis X. Murray, left, and Deputy Mayor Nancy Howard. Photo: Village of Rockville Centre.