Anton Cossean

Anton L. (Tony) Cossean, 56, of Rossville, a lifelong Staten Islander and a freelance mason who loved animals and was an advocate for them, died Friday at home.

Born in Huguenot, Mr. Cossean moved with family to Rossville when he was a boy and remained in the community.

He was a graduate of Tottenville High School, and attended the College of Staten Island.

Mr. Cossean had a passion for music, and was a talented drummer. He also was a history buff, with the Civil War his particular favorite; he also collected artifacts of the period.

He was a skilled woodworker and woodcarver, and his family cherishes the pieces he made and gave to them, they said.

Mr. Cossean was a parishioner of St. Joseph's R.C. Church, Rossville.

His son, Michael Scott, died in 2012.

Surviving are his parents, Lilyan and Donald Cossean Sr., and his brothers, Donald Jr., Tom and Brian.

The funeral will be Tuesday from the Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, Tottenville, with a mass at 10:00 a.m. in St. Joseph Church. Arrangements include cremation.

Services: St. Joseph's RC Church-Rossville Tuesday, November 26, 2013 10:00AM

Visitation: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home Monday, November 25, 2013 2-4 & 7-9PM

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations to the ASPCA, in Anton's name would be appreciated.

Cemetery: Rosehill Crematory

Location: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home

Church: St. Joseph's RC Church-Rossville