Colonel Anthony “Tony” Joseph Cossa, Jr. (USAF, Ret), of Douglassville, PA, peacefully passed into God’s hands on March 5, 2024.
Tony was born on September 9, 1943, in Philadelphia, PA. He was the son of the late Anthony J. Cossa, Sr. and the late Josephine Cavalieri Cossa. Tony joined the ROTC program and graduated from St. Joseph’s University in 1965. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. In September of the same year he married his high school sweetheart, Carole Ann Slysz.
During the 26 years of Tony’s distinguished military career, he was stationed at multiple bases in the United States, as well as in England. Tony served in the Vietnam War from January-December 1969. His primary specialty throughout his illustrious career was in the field of communications where he served as a Computer Systems Officer and a Computer Systems Director. He was given the honor to serve on the Inspector General’s Team for Communications. Tony retired as a Communications Squadron Commander. He received multiple commendations for his service.
Tony was a natural born leader with a strong moral code. His thirst for knowledge and understanding enhanced his honorability. He was quick to acknowledge the strengths in others and went to great lengths to bring them the recognition they deserved. He enjoyed mentoring the young men and women who worked for him and took great pride in his military and personal endeavors. His greatest sense of pride, however, was for his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. Tony was always willing to lend a helpful hand and went out of his way to support his friends and family. He is best remembered by his sense of humor, signature smile, and hearty laugh. His kindness and generosity will be greatly missed.
Tony was a member of the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church Douglassville, PA. He volunteered at a local nursing home and assisted veterans with their affairs.
He is survived by his loving wife, Carole, of 58 years; daughter Denise A. Liscum (Kenneth) of Lewisburg PA, son Kevin E. Cossa (Denise) of Tigard OR, and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Drum Cossa of Knoxville TN; four grandchildren, Alexander Liscum, Nathaniel Liscum, Benjamin Liscum, and Caitlin Cossa; his brother-in-law, Stephen Paskoski, Jr.; and his nieces Kymberly Miller, Jennifer Palmer, and nephew, Paul Sustek.
He was predeceased by his son, Capt. Michael Cossa (USAF, Ret) and sister Joanne Cossa Paskoski.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at the convenience of the family with Rev. Msgr. John B. McCann officiating. Interment will be in Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Bucks County, PA. Family and friends are encouraged to contact the family for additional information regarding services.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Tony’s memory to Wounded Warrior Foundation (WWF.org), Disabled American Veterans (DAV.org), or Immaculate Conception RCC, Douglassville PA.
Arrangements by Dengler Funeral Home, Inc., Birdsboro, Pennsylvania.