Anthony 'tony' Sala

Anthony ""Tony"" Sala, 96, of East Hartford died peacefully at his home on Saturday, (March 31, 2007). The widower of Antoinette (Battelo) Sala, he was born in Floridia, Sicily, Italy, the son of the late Salvatore and Paola (Garro) Sala. Working for over 50 years as a shoemaker at the former Marlo's in Manchester, he was beloved by family, friends and customers alike. And was a member of the Floridian Society in Hartford. Tony, a well-known professional musician started his career at the age of 14 in Italy and continued throughout New England. He played the valve trombone, the baritone horn and the tuba for the Banda di Floridia, La Stella d'Italia, the Hartford City Band and the Governor's Foot Guard Band. He also was a member of the Musician Union Local #400, and was a substitute for the Hartford Symphony Orchestra. Anthony is survived by his daughter, Mary P. Sala-Presutti; his grand daughter, Melinda and her husband John Connors, all of East Hartford; his brother Francesco and his wife Giuseppina Sala of Hartford; his sisters, Concetta and her husband Giuseppe Catinella of Hartford and Maria Alderuccio of Floridia. He also leaves a large extended family. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Angelo Alderuccio. Funeral services will be leaving the D'ESOPO East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street, East Hartford, 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, April 3. A Mass of Christian Burial 10 a.m. in St. Rose Church, East Hartford, with entombment to follow in Mt. St. Benedict Cemetery, Bloomfield. Calling hours are Monday from 4-7 p.m. at the funeral chapel. For on-line expressions of sympathy, please visit www.desopo.com.