Vincent A. Puma Sr.

VINCENT A. PUMA, SR

Vincent “Vinny” A. Puma, Sr. died on Sunday, March 22, 2020 in his home in Port St. Lucie, Florida. He was 78 years old.

Vinny is survived by his wife of 54 years Marianne (Berst) Puma, their children Donna Hopta (Andy), Elizabeth Mandl (Frank), Christopher Puma, grandchildren Ryan Maass, Bryan Puma, Alyssa Puma, Lauren Hopta, Celeste Puma, and Andrew Hopta, brother Dr. Thomas Puma (Donna), niece Stephanie Puma-Ibbetson (Chris), and countless cousins.

He is pre-deceased by his father Anthony Puma, mother Mary Puma (Lanuti), and son Vincent A. Puma, Jr.

Born to Anthony Puma and Mary Puma (Lanuti) on August 23, 1941, Vinny grew up in the Bronx, NY, and began his education at Holy Rosary Elementary School. He attended Regis High School in New York City before moving to Scarsdale, NY, where he graduated from Edgemont High School in 1959.

After high school, Vinny enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served for four years as a radar technician, attaining the rank of Airman 1st Class.

Following his military service, Vinny met the love of his life, Marianne Berst. The two married on August 28, 1965 and embarked on a life-long partnership and journey in life.

Vinny started his work life with Western Electric followed by an apprenticeship with the Marble Industry. Vinny then turned to a career in law enforcement.

Vinny began his education in criminal justice. He studied at the New York City Police Academy, John Jay School of Criminal Justice, Westchester Community College, and Pace University – where he attained a BA in criminal justice.

Vinny worked over a decade with the New York City Police Department, and then continued his public service as a sergeant in the Carmel, NY Police Department. He would later serve as president for the Carmel Police Benevolent Association, and an officer for the Federation of Police.

Outside of law enforcement, Vinny was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, working as an insurance agent for the Cardinal Hayes Council #3995 in Yonkers, New York.

Following his law enforcement career, Vinny joined the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, belonging to Branch #4506 near his home in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. He also continued his service with the Knights of Columbus as a 4th Degree Knight. Vinny strongly believed in supporting veterans, especially those who were wounded in service.

Outside of his extensive career and charity work, Vinny passionately enjoyed NY Giants football, Yankees baseball, NASCAR, and traveling the world with his wife Marianne.

Throughout his life, Vinny was dedicated to his family. As a young man, he served as an assistant scout master for his younger brother Tom. Later in life, he worked tirelessly to provide for his wife and four children to ensure they would live successful and meaningful lives of their own.

In 1970, Vinny moved his young family from Yonkers, NY northward to Brewster, where he would remain to raise his children for over 25 years.

After retiring, Vinny and Marianne relocated to Southern Shores, North Carolina, where they enjoyed the beauty of the beaches and the slower pace of life. During that time, he fulfilled his long-time dream of opening his own pizzeria, making his mark on local business with “Puma’s Pizza” alongside his son Chris.

Later in his retirement, Vinny and Marianne made Florida their seasonal home, where they enjoyed the companionship of many fellow retirees. Vinny’s favorite activities included countless card games, bingo nights, and golf cart rides with his beloved dog Bailey by his side.

Even in his later years, Vinny remained active – always taking time for family vacations and gathering with loved ones around a home-cooked meal. He was a proud and loving grandfather, often saying “I would die for my children, but I would kill for my grandchildren.”

Vinny loved to share his opinions and experiences. At every visit or family gathering, Vinny could be counted on to fill the room with conversation, stories, and laughter. Everyone who got to know him has memories that will last a lifetime.

His passing will leave a big hole in our hearts forever.

A Celebration of Life will occur at Haisley Funeral Home in Port St. Lucie, Florida, with interment to follow at South Florida National Cemetery at a later date.