Antonio Lonardo Jr. of Methuen, died peacefully in his home, with his wife Lucia of 53 years at his side, on Saturday, January 3, 2009. He was 76 years old.
Born the second child of Italian immigrants Antonio Sr. and Felicia in Lawrence, Massachusetts 1932, he was educated in the public school system, served the Korean conflict in the U.S. Navy and resided in Lawrence and Methuen his entire life.
He is also survived by his eldest son Mark, a son Bruce, and a daughter Lisa Marie, grandchildren Victoria, Michael and Larissa, one brother Ricardo and one sister Mary Ann.
Shortly after military discharge in the mid 1950's, he abandoned traditional opportunities in his career search to pursue a fascination with the infantile field of computer programming in which he blossomed, becoming a pioneer and leader in the field. Constant innovation and pursuit of excellence were the hallmark of a nearly four decade career serving the United States Treasury's Internal Revenue Service. His list of achievements, innovations and awards, many directly from Washington DC, would be too numerous to mention.
His last salute came in the late 1990's, nearly ten years into his retirement, as a request from the federal government to assist in any way with the impending Y2K problem. The progression of Parkinson's disease prevented a reply and more than likely a solution. How a brilliant, yet simple, first generation Italian-American could carve himself so deeply and technically into the Treasury of the United States reigns testament to the opportunity present in the America he loved and served and to those who seek knowledge. He and his achievements, along with his selfless service to family, friends and country will be remembered forever by those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Contributions can be made in his name to Merrimack Valley Hospice 360 Merrimack Street, Lawrence, MA. 01843 in support of the outstanding service they provided him.
A memorial mass will be announced at a later date.