John Anthony "Tony" Kawam

John Anthony “Tony” Kawam, age 86, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday June 24, 2025, in the comfort of his home, with the love of his family in his heart.

He was born in Aleppo, Syria on May 18, 1939, a son of the late Izzat and Naima (Kakaty) Kawam. Tony grew up in Syria and moved to Caracas, Venezuela at the age of 16, from 1955-1963 where he started a business that he operated for 8 years, after which he immigrated to the US and Utica.

Tony had a 30-year career at the Mohawk Container Co. in New Hartford, retiring in June of 1996. He enjoyed watching sports, especially Syracuse Basketball and Football, as well as being a New York Yankee fan. He also loved playing cards with family and friends and was known for his generosity, always willing to help his loved ones in any way he could. Tony’s home was the center of family gatherings, a place where everyone came together. He always had a deck of cards and a score pad ready for all to join in. He was the constant source to rely on and was affectionately known to many as “Uncle T.” Through the years there have been feasts, parties, daily visits, and much love from a dedicated guy who devoted his life to his family. We especially want to acknowledge his unwavering dedication and heartfelt support in caring for both of his parents throughout their lives.

Tony is survived by two sisters Nadia Casab and Bernadette Wojcik both of Utica; a special nephew, who Tony raised like his own son, Daniel Nowlin (Briana Jamparueang) of Las Vegas; his sisters-in-law Lorraine Kawam and Renee (Yvette) Kawam; 17 nieces and nephews and several great nieces and great nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers and sisters-in-law Joseph and Elizabeth (Betty) Kawam, George Kawam and Pierre Kawam; sister and brother-in-law Bertha and Basil Tehan.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Mass this Saturday June 28th at 10:00 am in St. Basil Melkite Catholic Church, Utica, with the Rev. James Koury officiating. The family will greet visitors at the conclusion of Mass in church. Private interment will be in the family lot in Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Basil Melkite Catholic Church in memory of Tony. Envelopes will be available at the Mass.

Funeral arrangements by The Scala, Roefaro & Karboski Funeral Home Inc. 1122 Culver Ave. Utica.