Born in Maspeth, New York, Tony attended Half Hollow Hills West High School, where he played football and lacrosse. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology from SUNY Cortland. There, Tony proudly played football for the Red Dragons, forming lifelong friendships.

Inspired by his Uncle Tommy, Tony joined the FDNY in August 1991. He served in Engine 202, transferred to Ladder 48/Engine 56, then to Engine 313/Ladder 164. He retired from Hazmat 1 in December 2022. No matter his station, Tony always made time to honor traditions, never missing a Memorial Day event or the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.

While on the job, Tony developed a love for cooking, inspired by his grandma’s Italian heritage. Cooking became a passion, whether for the firehouse or at home with friends and family.

Tony was a leader for the FDNY Bravest football team—18 years as a player, five as a coach, then with the alumni association. He was known to the Bravest as having the “Heart of a Lion.” The annual NYPD game was the highlight of his year, if the FDNY won of course.

Off the job, he served as a volunteer in the East Farmingdale Fire Department for 25 years and as a longtime youth coach. Affectionately known as Coach Tony, he impacted many through Farmingdale Hawks football, sharing the passion he displayed after school with the Brooklyn Mariners and the Bravest, for 20 years, long after his own kids moved on to high school and college.

With phrases like “Christmas at the Cratchits’” or “Raise Your Pants, Raise Your Image,” Tony instilled pride, discipline, and humor. He contributed to the ongoing football success in Farmingdale but is remembered not for wins or championships, but for his mentorship and the example he set for countless young athletes growing into young men.

Tony loved movies, music, and making people laugh. He quoted films (The most beautiful sight these eyes have ever seen), sang karaoke, and even sang at his wedding. Coaching, he’d bring up “Waiters and Butlers” or “The name on the front of the jersey.” Songs like “The Boys of Fall” and “Just Like You, Dad” touched his heart.

Tony was a proud father to Alexis, Cameron, and Kyle; a loving husband to his wife and soulmate; a devoted brother to Scott (FDNY, retired) and sister-in-law, Loyda; and uncle to Ryan.

A man of deep faith, he embodied “Always be Humble & Kind.” He toiled in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero on and after 9/11 and was later diagnosed with 9/11-related cancer. He passed away on November 13, 2024.

Tony Mastrelli is missed every day by all who knew and loved him.