Madison Kwiecinski – Editor-in-Chief

Mvk5945@psu.edu

Pennsylvania State Representative Anthony “Tony” M. DeLuca, the longest currently serving member of the Pennsylvania House of Representative died Sunday, October 9, 2022 at the age of 85. DeLuca passed away at home due to his recent battle with lymphoma. 

Representative DeLuca served for 39 years, representing the 32nd Legislative District of PA. He was proud of his role in co-founding and serving as the long-time chairman of the State Legislative Italian-American caucus, an ode to his italian heritage. His district included Penn Hills, Verona, and the majority of the Oakmont and Plum Borough areas. DeLuca resided in Penn Hills for over 60 years. 

DeLuca helped to draft the Penn Hill’s Home Rule Charter early in his career, and got his start in politics through serving on the Penn Hills Government Study Commission. Following that, DeLuca dutifully served five years as a Penn Hills councilman preceded by two years as the Penn Hills Deputy Mayor. Following his time as Deputy Mayor, DeLuca ran for the seat in the PA House of Representatives that he held for 39 years, defeating the previous Republican incumbent. 

“Representative DeLuca was not just our longest serving current member, but one of the most revered and respected by his colleagues and all Pennsylvanians,” stated Speaker of the House Bryan Cutler, R-Lancaster. “Rep. DeLuca’s unwavering commitment to his district could never be questioned, and his efforts on behalf of all Pennsylvanias, and in particular children, as the Democratic chair of the House of Insurance Committee will have an impact for years to come.” 

DeLuca had suffered a previous battle with lymphoma, and his wife, Connie, had also formerly been diagnosed with breast cancer. He was a large supporter of legislation to increase funding put towards cancer research, as well as funding to improve diagnosis and care. For over two decades, DeLuca served as the Democratic Chairman of the House Insurance Committee, where he worked tirelessly to guarantee patient safety. 

According to Austin Davis, the Democratic Representative of McKeesport, DeLuca was known for displaying a unique sense of fashion on the House floor. 

“Every day on the House floor everybody was kind of looking to see what color blazer Tony was wearing,” Davis said. “He often wore pink or orange and he would always manage to give the rest of us style advice. It was just something that really would make you laugh. He just has such a big personality that we’re all going to miss.” 

DeLuca’s grandson has also spoken out about what an incredible man and public servant his Grandfather was. Anthony, the grandson, has stated his grandfather had no interest in retiring, despite the fact that he was well into his 80s. 

“He just loved being a state Rep. There was never any contemplation about retirement. He did it because he loved his work,” stated Anthony. “Family was important to him and he took that into his work. He saw the community as his family. He listened and he would take in everything that somebody was saying. That would allow him to provide the best answers that people were looking for.”