The public community is mourning the loss of two respected figures whose lives reflected long-standing commitments to service, integrity, and family. Alan Joseph Croce, a former state corrections commissioner and retired undersheriff, and Frank C. Tassone, Sr., a devoted family man and father of a prominent local government executive, passed away within days of each other this week.
Alan Joseph Croce, 89, of Mattituck, passed away on May 28. A U.S. Navy veteran, Croce served with distinction in law enforcement as an undersheriff with the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department before being appointed commissioner of the New York State Commission of Corrections. Known for his leadership, fairness, and advocacy for reform within the criminal justice system, Croce’s decades of public service earned him widespread respect across the region.
Visitation for Croce was held May 30 at DeFriest-Grattan Funeral Home in Mattituck, with a Liturgy of Christian Burial celebrated at Our Lady of Ostrabrama R.C. Church in Cutchogue, officiated by Father Ryszard Ficek. Entombment with U.S. Navy Honors followed at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Farmingdale. Donations to the Long Island State Veterans Home are appreciated in lieu of flowers.
Frank C. Tassone, Sr., of East Northport, passed away on May 26 at 96. He was remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who lived a quiet but meaningful life centered on family and faith. Tassone was the husband of Concetta Tassone and father of four, including Frank Tassone, Jr., a longtime member of the Suffolk County Republican Committee and a senior executive at the Suffolk County Water Authority. His values were carried forward in his son’s involvement in public service and local government.
He is survived by his children Valentino, Nick (Jeanne), Donna (Darren), Koffer, and Frank (Leigh); grandchildren Nicole, Michael, Michelle, Melissa, Jessica, Jenna, and Jake; and three great-grandchildren.
Visitation for Tassone took place Friday at Brueggemann Funeral Home in East Northport. A Funeral Mass was held at St. Anthony of Padua R.C. Church, with burial following at St. Charles Cemetery.
As their families gather to honor their lives, both men are remembered for the quiet dignity with which they served—one through public institutions, the other through the foundation of family that supports them.