College mourns passing of Salvatore Anastasio, professor emeritus of mathematics

It is with sadness that the College shares the news of the passing of Salvatore Anastasio, professor emeritus of mathematics, on Feb. 11, 2016, in Florida.

Anastasio graduated from the Courant Institute of New York University with a Ph.D. in mathematics. Following his graduation, he taught at Iona College, Fordham University, and for 30-plus years at SUNY New Paltz. While at New Paltz, Anastasio was named the recipient of the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching (1979-1980). He retired from his full-time position in 2000 and taught as an adjunct lecturer at the College from 2001-2004. His colleagues have remarked on his passion for teaching and how he was always concerned about keeping his courses fresh and of high quality for students. He led the masters’ program in math education, working closely with the School of Education. Anastasio was also instrumental in the development of the computer science program. His fellow mathematics department members described him as a valued colleague who served as a mentor to many newer faculty members.

“Sal was a dear friend whom I will miss very much,” said David Clark, professor emeritus of mathematics who joined the department along with Anastasio in 1970. “Throughout his time at SUNY  he was a true stabilizing force in a department working through its formative and sometimes turbulent years. His work in the Math Department, be it instructional or service, was always done in his characteristically conscientious and thorough style that was a model for us all.”

A devout Catholic, Anastasio attended and was a lector at St. Joseph’s Church in New Paltz and Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal on Pine Island, Fla.  His love of education continued into retirement. He taught at the Lifelong Learning Institute, tutored, and worked with the Food Pantry, the Beacon of Hope, the Museum of the Islands, and the Saint James City Civic Association.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Sarda, who served as an adjunct professor at the College from 1973-1996; his two daughters, Carla Anastasio and Mary Weissmann; a grandson, Troy Grant; his two stepdaughters, Sigrid Sarda and Inga Sarda; and his goddaughter, Jennie Talley.  He is predeceased by his first wife, Dolores Zeni.

Services will be held at Copeland Funeral Home in New Paltz on Friday, Feb. 19, at 4 p.m. His funeral mass will be on Saturday, Feb. 20, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in New Paltz. In lieu of flowers, you may wish to make a contribution to Bread for the World, Doctors Without Borders, or the Calusa Land Trust.