Obituary of Anthony J. Bifaro, Jr.

Anthony J. Bifaro Jr. passed away in the early hours of June 20, 2023 in Schenectady. He was born on August 30, 1945 in Silver Creek, NY to Anthony Sr. and Antonina Pagano Bifaro. His birth increased the family to 5 when he joined his siblings Peter and Cecilia. He was predeceased by his parents and siblings. Cecilia went before him by only 3 days. Family lore says “where Ceil went, Anthony followed.” Rest in peace siblings.

A 1963 graduate of Silver Creek Central School, he went on to SUNY Fredonia where he majored in Speech-English. He graduated in June of 1967 following his marriage to Julienne Blake of Cheektowaga, NY in March. Julie promised to marry him if he promised they would travel. Boy, they did! Traveling extensively throughout the USA and the world. most for fun, some for duty. The duty ones were Hawaii, Ireland, and China for the Special Olympics. The couple earned their Masters Degrees together in 1972.

Anthony taught English at Brocton Central School. While in Brocton, he directed the school plays and musicals. Julie worked alongside him as his wardrobe mistress. He became active in the teachers’ unions which became NYSUT. He left the classroom to relocate to the Albany area to begin his career as Assistant to the President of NYSUT. He stayed in that position until his retirement in 2009. Receiving awards too numerous to count, one of his most prestigious was the Ellis Island Medal of Honor Award in 2003. While in the Albany area, Tony became the liaison for NYSUT at Special Olympics NY. He also served on the theatre boards of Proctors and CapRep, and recently of NCSP of Clifton Park. Tony always displayed his leadership and was forever active in any community endeavor when asked.

He was proudest of his children Aaron M. Bifaro and Jillian B. Bills who brought him joy more times than he could count. The loves of his life bringing him additional joy later in life are his grandchildren Colin Bills and Madilyn Bills. He also leaves behind his latest furbabies after a long parade of them: Diamond, the cat, and Zuzu, the pup.

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention that Tony was a lifelong fan and supporter of the Buffalo Bills. Go Bills!

There will be no calling hours. A memorial Mass will be held on Friday, July 28 at 11 a.m. at St. Edward the Confessor Church in Clifton Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Special Olympics of NY, 94 New Karner Rd., Suite 208, Albany, NY 12203.