FRANKFORT – Philip O. “Junior” Tangorra, age 85, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, February 9, 2021 in the privacy and comfort of his home. At the time of his passing he had the love and support of his beloved family at his bedside. Born on September 5, 1935, Philip was the son of the late Philip and Mary (Buttiglione) Tangorra. He was raised and educated in Herkimer schools. On December 29, 1954 Philip enlisted with the United States Army and proudly served his country post-Korea. He received his honorable discharge on December 11, 1956. Upon his return from the service, on June 22, 1957, Junior was wed to the former Elizabeth “Lizzie” Caruso in St. Mary’s Church in Frankfort by Father Michael Fufferd. Together, Junior and Lizzie shared in a blessed union of over sixty-three years, filled with love and laughter. The devotion that they held for one another was evidenced by the wonderful care Lizzie provided to Junior through these last years. For many years, Phil was employed as a machinist with Library Bureau in Herkimer, a position from which he retired. In his spare time he enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially with his brothers and nephews who had many great times together at hunting camp in the Town of Ohio. He was also a longtime member of the Mid-Valley Beagle Club. Phil was always there for his beloved family and was the consummate role model for his daughters and grandchildren. He never missed a sporting event, dance recital or milestone in any of their lives. Nothing gave him greater joy than when his beloved family were all gathered together for celebrations or holidays. More often than not, he could be found in the center of the room, avidly cheering on his beloved Yankees or Giants. Survivors include his beloved wife, Liz; his daughters and sons-in-law, Denise and Dennis Ruddy, Marie Elaina and Tony Licari and Jennifer and Joseph DeSarro, all of Frankfort; his grandchildren, Danielle and Craig Zogby, Ashley Ruddy and fiancé, Daniel Priore, Tony and Laura Licari, Ryan Licari, Jamie and Jelena Licari, Matthew Licari, Joey DeSarro and Alexa DeSarro; and his great-grandchildren, Hailey Zogby, Jack Zogby and one on the way! He also leaves his sisters and brothers-in-law, Bella Aiello of Herkimer, Lucy Marollo of Herkimer, Janet and Bill Palmieri of Herkimer, Palma and David Calenzo of Clinton and Kathy and Frank Barrett of Ilion; his brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Joan Tangorra of Ohio; his in-laws, Rosemary and Chuck Coppola, Phyllis and Jim Caruso, Harriet Tangorra, Paul Zito and Anita Martin; as well numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and special friend, Ron Testa. Junior also held a special place in his heart for his great-nephew, Philip Tangorra who would ride his bike down to visit his uncle regularly and in all types of weather just to brighten Junior’s day. He was predeceased by his brothers, Richard Tangorra, Alex Tangorra, Cosimo Tangorra and Frank Tangorra; and his sisters, Elaine Zito, Vita Palumbo and Rose Maida. A special thank you is extended to Dr. Fred & Roe Talarico along with his home healthcare aides, Oume and Senija, for the constant care and compassion shown to him throughout his illness and for allowing him the dignity of remaining in his home through these last days. Due to COVID, there will be no public calling hours. Friends and relatives are invited to attend his funeral service on Saturday, February 13, 2021 at 12NOON at Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church in Frankfort where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Paul Catena, Pastor. All attendees will be required to wear a face mask and social distancing will be enforced. Spring interment will take place in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Frankfort where full military honors will be accorded. In lieu of floral offerings, for those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society, 110 Lomond Court, Utica, NY 13502 OR to the Alzheimer’s Association, Central New York Chapter, 441 W. Kirkpatrick St. Syracuse, NY 13204. The Tangorra family has entrusted the care of their beloved husband and father to the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000, Harry and Kevin Enea and Martin L. Ciaccia, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.