Ciro F. DeLuca

89, of Greenville, passed away on Monday, November 19, 2018.  Born in Portici, Naples, Italy, he was the son of the late Alfonso M. and Annunziata (Angrisano) De Luca.

Ciro worked as a fine jewelry toolmaker for 57 years before his retirement.  He served in the Army National Guard for 24 years beginning in 1948 during the Korean War and leading into the Vietnam War as well.  He retired as a Master Sergeant First Class having then served in the Artillery Division of the Army National Guard and also served in the 88th Army Band. As a lead percussionist and an instructor of percussion he had many students throughout his career.  He was also a former member of the musician’s union and played in symphonic orchestras including jazz bands, nightclub combos, and numerous concert and marching bands.  He was enthralled with music and loved photography and his family, especially trips to Cape Cod and the beaches.  He was a very kind and loving person, and very humble for all his skills.  He even played the role of father to his 2 siblings growing up during the war in Italy when their father went on an OSS mission to the torpedo station in Newport, RI during World War II.

He is survived by his brother Anthony DeLuca and his wife Sylvia of Saunderstown, and sister Anna Luisa Spadetti and her late husband Peter of Johnston; nieces Nancy and her husband Ray, Luisa and her spouse Brenda, and nephews Anthony and his wife Martha, Steven and his wife Kim, and Peter; great nieces Jillian, Allison, Cara and Talia.

His funeral arrangements were private.  His Christian Burial took place in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston with full Military Honors.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your charity of choice.