Notable Deaths in 2013

Throughout the year news broke of several shocking and saddening deaths. We followed their stories, reported on their contributions and mourned their loss.

Patch has compiled a list of notable deaths in Garden City.

Edward Tacchi passed away in January with family by his side in the Fenimore Road home he was born in. A former Marine and 40-year member of the Garden City Fire Department, Mr. Tacchi was also active with the Western Property Owners' Association.

Cummin M. Clancy died peacefully at home Feb. 15. Mr. Clancy called Garden City home for 51 years. The former Olympian for Ireland in 1948 later founded Clancy & Clancy Brokerage, Ltd. in 1956. The family-operated, independent insurance agency has become a fixture on Seventh Street.

Ralph G. Pomponio, a long-term member of the Garden City Special Police, died in January. Mr. Pomponio joined the Garden City Special Police in December 1967 and steadily rose through the ranks until he became a lieutenant. He was elected captain in March 1988 and held that position until 1990 where upon he returned to the rank of lieutenant.

Joseph Iavarone, a beloved founder of a Long Island staple in gourmet Italian food, died in December in Garden City. He was 88 years old. Mr. Iavarone was the head of Iavarone Bros., an Italian gourmet business started by his father, Pasquale, in New York City after he emigrated from Italy in 1919. After serving as a medic in World War II, Joseph joined his father in the family business. Joined by his brother, Jerry, who returned from fighting in Korea, the two took over their fathers' business and expanded it beyond its city roots more than 50 years ago.

Garden City High School's Class of 1970 lost one of its own in June. Dave Jennings, known for his record-breaking athleticism as a professional punter for both the New York Giants and New York Jets, battled with Parkinson's disease since 1996. He passed at his home in Upper Saddle River, N.J. at the age of 61.

Msgr. Edward L. Tarrant, a former associate pastor at St. Joseph's in Garden City, died in February at the age of 88. Msgr. Tarrant began serving at St. Joseph's in September, 1960. He also served as chaplain for the Newman Club at Nassau Community College.

As you look through this list, you might think of others we lost this year. Please post a comment below about who else should be remembered and why.