Anthony Gene Zunino

Anthony Zunino, The Man, The Legend, The Heart of the Community

Made in America in 1979, Anthony’s patriotic spirit was bright at an early age. During his days at Bandon High School, he could always be counted on to organize bonfires and sport the flag from the back of his truck. He quickly became an experienced pyro-technician through his selfless dedication of 25 years to the Bandon Fire Department where he was also a leading member of the Cold-Water Rescue Team. Known for always having the right answer to (almost) everything, we would always make sure to mark on the calendar the one time he “might” have been wrong.  Not just a jack of all trades, but a master of most, Anthony’s allegiance to the citizens of Coos County was manifested through his service to both the Coos County Sheriff’s Office and the Bandon Police Department where he went above and beyond in serving in the roles of CRASH Team member, K9 Officer, and Certified Child Safety Seat Technician.  Despite leaving the police department to pursue his passion for entrepreneurship with his successful business, Freedom Graphics, Anthony's support for the citizens of Bandon never wavered. Whether it was being the MC at Cranberry Coronation, the Grinch at Holiday Lights, coaching one of his kids’ teams, helping his kids raise pigs for 4H, or dancing the night away at the street dance, one person who was always guaranteed to be participating in a community event, it was Anthony.  

There was one thing we did discover, however, that Anthony may have faltered at, we are not saying he was the worst singer in the world, but his voice may have been banned in seven countries. Nevertheless, one of his greatest accomplishments is that of his family, especially in the creation of his children, Case and Aliyah, whom he lit up when talking about. We all know he struck gold in marrying Erika, his soulmate. His family also grew by two boys, Dameon and Oren whom he loved like his own.  He is also survived by his father, Greg and stepmother Maureen Zunino, and cousin, who was more like a brother, Robert Chaffee and many more family members. 

We can all agree the man and legend that is Anthony Zunino is irreplaceable and will hold a permanent place in our hearts and souls. As we reflect on Anthony's contributions to all our lives, we must carry forward the spirit of service and camaraderie that he embodied. As spoken by Mr. Anthony Zunino as previous President of the Bandon Chamber of Commerce, "Be grateful for where you are …….We may not always see eye to eye but when it comes down to the common good of our community we all do see eye to eye, and that is a great thing to look at and focus on rather than focusing on the negative.”  

We will always love and miss you, dear Anthony. We will look for you in the night sky every 4th of July and we will always leave the light on for you.

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