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Dr. Anthony “Tony” Joseph Acinapura, a dedicated physician, teacher, and mentor, passed away on August 22, 2023, at the age of 86 in Saltaire, NY. Born on July 3, 1937, in Union City, he was a beloved husband, devoted father, and grandfather.
Dr. Acinapura’s illustrious career began after his training with two of the foremost cardiac surgeons in the country in the 1960s. He trained under Dr. Sabiston at Duke and Dr. Spencer at NYU. Driven by his passion for cardiac surgery, he became the chief of cardiothoracic surgery at Bellevue and later played a vital role in rebuilding the cardiothoracic program at St. Vincent’s Hospital, where he served as the chief of cardiothoracic surgery. He continued his impactful career at Maimonides Hospital and subsequently as the Chairman of Surgery at Lutheran Hospital. A man who considered “retirement” a dirty word, Dr Acinapura continued to serve as a senior surgical consultant at Methodist Hospital until illness forced him to take a step back. Throughout his career, Dr. Acinapura actively educated and mentored numerous medical students, residents, and fellows in the fields of cardio, thoracic, and vascular surgery. and was on the teaching faculty at Downstate Hospital and Weill Cornell Medical College. He was also actively involved in research, contributing to advancements in myocardial protection. His dedication and expertise earned him recognition as one of the best doctors in NY Magazine. He was a proud member of prestigious organizations such as the American College of Surgeons where he served as Governor, American Heart Association, and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and served as the president of the New York State Society of Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery.
Outside of his professional achievements, Dr. Acinapura enjoyed skiing, golfing, and scuba diving. These hobbies provided him with relaxation and joy outside the operating room. In addition, he enjoyed watching his beloved Yankees with his best friend Jeff and his brother Frank and rooting for the Jets and Giants from the stands. But his most enjoyable activity was cheering on his grandkids in their various sports.
Dr. Acinapura’s memory will be cherished by his surviving family members, including his beloved wife of over 50 years, Elizabeth Filardo Acinapura. He is also survived by his son, Anthony Acinapura Jr., his wife Yvonne, and their three children Alessia, Emilia, and Isabel. Additionally, he leaves behind his daughter Lisa Acinapura, her husband Brian Sosa, and their children Giovanni and Antonia. Lastly, his daughter Lauren Acinapura, her husband Mike Zimmerman, and their children Maria, Michael, and Sophia will forever hold him in their hearts.
Dr. Acinapura’s educational journey began at St. Peter’s Prep High School, followed by his higher education at Georgetown University and Georgetown Medical College. He completed his surgical residency at Duke, honing his skills and paving the way for his remarkable career.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Acinapura served in the Navy, where he made significant contributions that exemplified his dedication to his country.
Dr. Anthony “Tony” Joseph Acinapura will be deeply missed and remembered for his unwavering commitment to his patients, his passion for teaching, and his lasting impact on the field of cardiothoracic surgery and most importantly his love for his family. May he rest in peace.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at 10 am at St. Rose of Lima Church, 50 Short Hills Ave. Short Hills, NJ. Interment St. Teresa’s Cemetery, Summit, NJ. Visiting hours will be held on Monday, August 28, 2023, 2-4 pm & 7-9 pm at Bradley Smith & Smith Funeral Home, 415 Morris Ave. Springfield, NJ. In lieu of flowers, donations in Anthony’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 500 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Alzheimer’s Association Greater New Jersey Chapter, 23 Vreeland Rd. Suite 105, Florham Park, NJ 07932.
