Lt. Col. Anthony J. Fraioli

Lt. Col Anthony J Fraioli’s journey began in Port Chester, New York on the 11th of December, 87 years ago to immigrant parents Rose Frattarola and Antonio Fraioli who both arrived from Italy. Tony’s life story is one of faith, honor, compassion, fairness and above all Family.

Anthony was raised in Harrison, NY, where his father was a landscape gardener, and his mom was in charge of the High school cafeteria. Growing up along with his brother Gerald (Jerry), he was a standout student and athlete in multiple sports. He was offered a tryout to pitch for the Yankees right out of high school yet declined to pursue his studies at Clarkson Polytechnic Institute, as a chemist, along with ROTC which lead to his eventual career as a United States Marine.

After college Tony worked a stint at Geigy company before the Marines where he served faithfully for 26 years alongside his brethren with his wife Jillian by his side. He was an artillery officer for the majority of his decorated career, served in Vietnam, was the commanding officer of the Marine barracks Roosevelt Roads, and rounded out his career as an operations officer for the Com Nav Surf Lant fleet. Post military retirement he worked in the private sector revamping the MPS fleet once again in support of his fellow Marines.

Upon full retirement, he and his wife Jillian Moved to Steamboat Springs in the early nineties where they resided for 20 years to be close to family and enjoy all the outdoor activities that Colorado affords. Tony liked to golf and ski, he worked at the local golf club for some years, was active in St. Pauls church., and helped out with local clubs and initiatives. When he wasn’t recreating, he was helping his family build a business and enjoyed being the best grandfather the grandkids could have ever hoped for!

In 2012, after getting tired of shoveling snow for 20 winters, He and his wife relocated to Sun City in Bluffton where he was involved in several clubs. Tony’s club interests included Softball, Golf, Veterans, Bocce, Computer, pinochle and Republicans. Tony was also NR for his Live Oaks neighborhood. Tony was an active member at Church of the Cross and supported several charities.

Tony has left behind to celebrate his incredible life, his wife of 60 years, Jillian, children Marc and Dawn (self-proclaimed favorite child), daughter in law Missy and grand children Malia, Keala, Kyle and Ryan who all hope to carry on Tony’s amazing legacy as we know he will be looking down on us.

Lt. Col Anthony J Fraioli reported for his final tour of duty at approximately 07:15 hours this past Friday the 6th of October with his wife and daughter by his side.

Semper Fi

Activities for Anthony will be held as follows:

Wake at Sauls Funeral Home 10/11 Wednesday 5-7 Bluffton, Sc.

Church Service at Church of the Cross 10/12 Thursday 11am

Interment at Beaufort National Cemetery 10/12 Thursday 1pm  

In lieu of flowers the family suggests you support one of the many charities that were important to Tony.   American Heart Association, The Gary Sinese Foundations, Dr’s Without Borders, Leukemia and Lymphoma society, St Jude’s, Shriners Hospital , Tunnels to Towers, Mercy Ships.

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