Angelo S. Sabella

5/15/1924 – 8/14/2016

Angelo S. Sabella was born in Los Angeles, CA on May 15, 1924. He was the son of Phillip and Rosalie (Renguso) Sabella. He was the youngest of four children (Jake, Frances and Jennie). His father Phillip migrated from Palermo, Italy as a young boy. He arrived in Louisiana and married Rosalie in 1918.

Angelo attended Lincoln High School in Los Angeles, CA and lived on Manitou Street. As a young boy he worked for the LA Times as a swopper. He and his brother Jake also delivered newspapers to residents in Little Tokyo.

He graduated from Lincoln High School at the age of 18 and enlisted in the US Air Force in January 1943. He was a member of the 384th Bomb Group 544th Bomb Squadron out of Grafton Kettering Underwood Base in England. He flew 22 combat missions over France, Germany, Poland, Holland and Belgium. He was a radio operator, gunner and toggilier. After 22 missions, he was asked whether or not he wanted to complete his remaining 3 missions or return home. Because many of his fellow brothers in the service never returned after some of his missions, he decided to forego the 3 remaining missions and return home.

He received the following medals:

Air Medal Oakleaf Designated Mission

American Campaign

European Campaign

Distinguished Flying Cross

When he returned to the US, he worked at various jobs.

He met his future wife, Mary L. Amato, in 1946. They married on September 11, 1948 and were married for 55 years before her death in 2004.

In 1967, he began employment with the Department of Water and Power as a Storekeeper of the General Services Division for 22 years and retired on July 1, 1989. During this time, his wife Mary would make him lunch daily and drive him to and from work.

After his retirement he enjoyed babysitting, volunteering at Sacred Heart Elementary School, helping with the 3rd grade class and attending the many sporting events of his nephews and nieces. In later years he enjoyed repairing bicycles and skate boards for children in his neighborhood.

He is survived by his sister-in-law Theresa, brother-in-law Frank, his 8 nieces and nephews, 22 great nieces and nephews and 24 great great nieces and nephews.

Arrangements under the direction of Pierce Brothers Turner & Stevens Mortuary, San Gabriel, CA.