Some of you may have met my young friend Tony, a proud Newarker and an important member of the Dickie Dee's staff. Tony was found dead this morning in his apartment at the age of 26. He was a funny, generous man, definitely a wise guy, but with a big heart. I found out about his passing when I went to DD for lunch today and left without eating anything. It will be quite a while before I can go in there again without feeling a tremendous sadness. Rest in peace, my friend.

Boy, is that a shock. I've only met him a couple of times, and he probably wouldn't remember who the hell I was. He always entertained me, though -- he had that typical unique Newark style. I was going to stop by there for lunch after doing my talk at the NJ Historical Society today, but changed my mind as I got out later than I thought I would -- glad I didn't go as I wouldn't have been able to eat either.

My son Michael, home for Easter from Duryea, Pa. and I went to Dicky Dee's today to buy hot dogs and to pay our respects.

Anthony S. Medina
Sunday, April 16, 2006
A service for Anthony S. Medina, 28, of Newark will be at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Zarro Funeral Home, 145 Harrison St., Bloomfield.

Mr. Medina, who died Wednesday at home, was a cook and deliveryman for Dickie Dees Hot Dogs and Pizzeria, Newark, for many years.

Born in Newark, he lived most of his life in North Newark.

Surviving are his parents, Donna and Rocco Ciccolini; a brother, Rocci Ciccolini; his grandparents, Kathleen Fischer and Lucille Ciccolini, and his great-grandmother, Lillian Boyle.

Rich, thanks for posting the obit. I would like to be there for the service but have since traveled to Florida. I'll never forget the guy.