Phillip Charles Capone

Phillip Charles Capone, 89, passed away on March 30, 2020 in Pensacola, FL with his wife and daughter by his side. He was the son of Thomas A. and Esther C. (Sullivan) Capone. His parents met when they came to the Ray Brook Sanatorium in search of a cure from tuberculosis. He was born in Saranac Lake, NY in 1930. He moved to Syracuse when he was 12, and later attended the NYS College of Forestry. After graduating he served in the US Coast Guard on an ice-breaker named Westwind (WAGB 281) that kept shipping lanes open in the arctic region of Canada and Greenland. While stationed in the Port of Boston, he met his true love on a ski train returning from North Conway, NH. Phil and Barb were married in Lynn, MA in 1954, beginning their journey of 65+ years together. They moved to Saranac Lake in 1954 and he began his forestry career in Ray Brook with the NYS Conservation Department. He transferred to the Lake George office for a few years, but then had the opportunity to return to Ray Brook in 1962, where they raised their 5 children in a large farmhouse for the next 57 years. In 1990, Phil retired after working in the Division of Lands & Forest for 36 years. He was the elder statesman of Ray Brook and was respected for his strong family values and good nature. His co-workers and friends knew him as a man of integrity, discipline, and generosity. Phil was a devoted member of St. Bernard’s Parish, where he sang in the choir. He volunteered for many community functions including: Knights of Columbus, Society of American Foresters, Trip Leader for ADK Northwoods Chapter, Meals on Wheels delivery, Winter Carnival parade judge, Adirondack Canoe Classic official, Adirondack Scenic Railroad steward, and Prison Community Advisory Board member. He enjoyed being outdoors whether it was fishing, canoeing, gardening, skiing, hunting, or hiking. He was known for his affinity for maps, and had a legendary appetite. He treasured his time in the Adirondacks and spending time with family. Phillip was predeceased by his parents and brother, T. Mark Capone. Survivors include his wife, Barbara (Manning) and daughter, Anne Sanborn (LaMont) of Pensacola, FL; sons Paul Capone (Sue) of Vermontville, NY; Dan Capone (Kim) of Williamston, MI; Matt Capone (Laurene) of Loxahatchee, FL; and daughter Cathy Bennett (Curt) of Chisago City, MN; 13 grandchildren, 3 great-grandkids, and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, friends and family can make a charitable contribution to Adirondack Mountain Club – Northwoods Chapter, Knights of Columbus Council #599, St. Bernard’s School or other organizations of your choice. A funeral is planned to take place in Pensacola later this summer. A graveside service in Saranac Lake will be announced at a later date. FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME SOUTH, 100 Beverly Parkway, Pensacola, is entrusted with arrangements. You may express condolences online at www.fcfhs.com.

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Phillip Charles Capone

June 11, 1930 - March 30, 2020