WILMINGTON — Anthony J. (Tony) Caputo passed away May 10, 2024 surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Tony was born in Plainfield, NJ, February 16, 1942, to Anthony J. Caputo, Sr. and Josephine Tufaro Caputo. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Caputo and sister, Phyllis Caputo Philipps.
He is survived by his wife, Lynn Gayle Caputo; his two daughters, Kristina Caputo Duggan (Andy) of Coeur D’Alene, ID and Diana Caputo Duggan (Eugene) of Sierra Madre, CA as well as their mother, Jenny Caputo of Palm Springs, CA; fourteen grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; nephews and nieces. Also surviving are his two brothers, Ralph Caputo of Olympia, WA, Richard Caputo of North Port, FL, and his sister, Theresa Caputo Renn of Asheville, NC.
Tony grew up in southern California and attended City College in Los Angeles, CA where he studied Electrical Engineering. He began his career as a project manager for Electrend, Inc., supervising electrical installations in hospitals, schools and high-rise buildings throughout California. While managing a project for Lockheed, his young age earned him the nickname “The Kid” from the employees. Going forward, his career reflected his acumen and entrepreneurial spirit. Partnering with his cousin, he started Calectric, Inc., an electrical and engineering firm which he ran until relocating to Lake Havasu City, AZ. He and Lynn then formed a construction company specializing in custom and spec homes and helped establish a Houseboat Rental business as well. He was able to combine his love of RV travel and an unending desire for new pursuits when he joined with partners to design, develop and operate Havasu RV Resort. This would be the first of many RV parks he would design and build throughout the country and it was the catalyst for the RV consulting firm he and his partner started after he and Lynn moved to Asheville, NC. Grudgingly, he retired in 2023 after relocating to Trinity Landing in Wilmington, NC.
Tony played as hard as he worked being an avid boater, diver and licensed multi-engine and helicopter pilot. His love of RV travel resulted in adventures across the U.S., Canada and Mexico. He had a quick wit, bright mind, boundless energy, determination, and enormous heart. As a result, he and Lynn shared their time, energy, resources and often their home with young people and families in need of a support system to help them find their place in the world. From Rwanda and Kenya to locations across the Country, they have an adopted family that fills their lives with great joy. You won’t find his name on any buildings, but his legacy lives in the hearts of those who experienced his guidance, generosity and love.
The family will hold a celebration of Tony’s life at a time and place to be determined.
The family extends special thanks to the understanding and professional nurses and staff at Lower Cape Fear Lifecare for the care and kindness given to Tony and our family.
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