R. Tony Ciociola Fund

Born and raised in New Haven, Tony started his career as a New Haven firefighter on Engine 11 in the Hill section of New Haven — the same neighborhood where his grandparents lived when they started their life in New Haven. He retired as the driver of Truck 3 in Fair Haven. Throughout his career, he received numerous qualifications and unit citations for his training and performance on the job. Tony was one of thousands of firefighters who went to New York City to assist in the search and rescue efforts in the aftermath of 9/11. Prior to his retirement, Tony loved the work of firefighting and enjoyed the camaraderie and brotherhood of the firehouse.

Tony attended Saint Bernadette School in Morris Cove and graduated from Notre Dame High School in West Haven, where he lettered in football and track. He attended Hebron Academy in Maine, where he was on the football and wrestling teams, and then attended Northeastern University in Boston. He was an avid cook and enjoyed spending time boating, fishing and scuba diving. Tony was a member of the Indian Neck Yacht Club, and proud to be a 32nd Degree Freemason of Wooster Lodge #79 in New Haven.

Above all else, being a father to Reese brought Tony the greatest joy in life. He will be remembered as a kind, loyal, loving and fun husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend. He is missed by all who knew him.

The fund will support the causes that Tony cared about, which include support for veterans, first responders, and their families.