John Bligh
- Teacher
- IS 34, Staten Island
Anton Updale was a strong believer in giving back to his community and lived that belief every day of his life. For more than 25 years, he was a physical education teacher at IS 34 on Staten Island, where he taught countless students and made a positive difference in their lives. He himself was a graduate of IS 34 and of Tottenville HS, where he was a football and track standout.
Anton, age 53, died on April 5 of complications from a surgical procedure.
A talented running back at Tottenville HS, Anton went on to play slot receiver at the University of New Haven. He was also a sprinter on the Tottenville track team. One former adversary called him a “great natural athlete and an even better person.”
As a teacher, colleague, coach, role model, mentor and friend, Anton had a lasting influence on others. He was known for his love of physical education and how it contributes to a healthy life. He brought joy to IS 34 by overseeing a favorite student tradition, the school’s annual Field Days for all grades. Anton was also a youth football coach in his home community of Monroe, N.J.
As a dean for six years, Anton played an outsized role in the broader life of the school community at Totten Intermediate School. He was appreciated for his hard work, dedication and love for the school.
Jim Munson, a former teammate and football coach at Tottenville HS, told the Staten Island Advance Anton left a positive impression on everyone he met.
“With the 9th-graders I teach, I ask them what junior high school they came from and when they say IS 34, I ask them if they had Mr. Updale, and everyone smiles and says ‘he is the best.’ That’s all that needs to be said about the legacy he has left,” Munson said.
Anton is survived by his wife Jen and his three children, Anton, Christian and Delilah.
I miss you Mr updale
He was my son’s gym teacher this year. My son loved him and only had good things to say about him. Our condolences to his family.
Think about Anton all the time. It’s a good day when I don’t cry. Respect to the family. Respect to all the families. Respect to his friends. Respect to his memory.
My condolences to the family as another educator and fallen angel is taken away too soon …Rest in Peace …my sincerest sympathies to all of you. God help us all .
Anton told me early in his career that all he ever wanted to do was to come back to IS 34 to teach. He was a really good guy. So sad. Condolences to his family.
My sincerest condolences and prayers go out to Anton’s family, friends, colleagues and the IS 34 school community. I didn’t know him personally but, I’m a fellow teacher and UFT member on Staten Island. Our hearts are heavy today for the loss of our fellow colleague and UFT member. May he Rest In Peace.
May Anton Rest In Peace and May his loved ones be comforted please and given strength. Amen.