Anthony Zissis

Mr. Anthony (Tony) Zissis, 93, of Robinson Township, passed away peacefully on September 20th, 2023. He spent his final days surrounded by his beloved children. Tony was born in McKees Rocks, PA, on August 16th, 1930 to Fotios and Anezo Zissis. He was an adventurous child and loved to follow his brothers around – to the point where he followed them to school and started early, graduating from Stowe High School at age 16!

Continuing his adventures, Tony joined the Navy at age 20 and served for 4 years. He loved telling stories about his time on the boats and his shenanigans on deck. After leaving the Navy, Tony proudly attended Clarion University for his undergraduate degree in secondary education, then University of Pittsburgh to obtain his Masters in education.

Tony was passionate about learning and worked for Montour School District for over 30 years. He began as a high school math teacher and ended his career as an assistant superintendent before retiring in 1989. Tony absolutely loved his time with Montour and took great pride in having the privilege to help kids learn and grow. Even decades after retirement, he would still be filled with joy whenever he would encounter past students and hear about their lives.

In 1959, Tony met his greatest adventure of all – his wife Aspasia (Espy). They wed on July 17, 1960 and created a beautiful life, home, and family together. Tony’s greatest treasure was his family, and he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved spending time connecting over a meal, sitting around the table telling stories and laughing for hours. Anyone lucky enough to spend this time with Tony would know to listen for his dry humor that he would slip in between the chatter. Under a quiet and attentive demeanor was a man who loved to be silly and bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Tony was a devout Greek Orthodox Christian and was a well-respected lifelong member of the Holy Trinity family. He and Espy were very involved in church activities and enjoyed working the yearly Greek festival. He loved attending church with his family and sharing his faith with his children and grandchildren.

Tony kept himself busy and had many hobbies and interests. Notably, he enjoyed working with Espy in their garden, completing the daily crossword puzzle, and cheering on every Pittsburgh sports team. He was always eager to play games and build puzzles, and would gladly join you on a walk – whether it be around a mall, on a beach, or around his living room as you take your first steps. Tony truly had a zest for all aspects of life – both big and small – and had endless gratitude and joy for his blessings.

Tony’s family will miss his endless kindness, quick wit, and loving nature. They find comfort knowing he has embarked on his next adventure, joining Espy in heaven as they gaze into a new, beautiful garden together.

Tony is survived by his children Anna Zissis, Gea (Jeff) Spires, Frank (Ellen) Zissis, and Tina (Harry) Krukenberg; his grandchildren,

Kayla (Jared) Steinmetz, Christian James, Tanner Zissis, and Hayden Zissis; and his many nieces, nephews, and godchildren. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Aspasia, his parents, and his brothers George (June) and Johnny (Deane).

The Zissis family would also like to extend their gratitude to the incredible teams at Miami Valley Hospital South, Hospice of Dayton, and Randall Residence of Centerville. A special thank you is also extended to his neighbors in Pittsburgh for all their kindness over the years.

Friends are welcome on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 from 2pm – 8pm at Pittsburgh Cremation and Funeral Care,  5405 Steubenville Pike, McKees Rocks, PA 15136. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 11am, with viewing beginning at 10am, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 985 Providence Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15237.

Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church of Pittsburgh

( https://onrealm.org/HolyTrinityPgh/-/form/give/now) and Hospice of Dayton (https://www.hospiceofdayton.org/donations/)