Anthony Bernard Caruso

At 96 years old, Anthony Bernard Caruso completed a remarkable life’s journey on February 20, 2026, just three weeks before his 97th birthday. He passed away peacefully in his home under hospice care with his family by his bedside.

Born on March 12, 1929, in Hartford, Connecticut, to Michael and Mildred Caruso, Anthony grew up in Hartford alongside his beloved brother, Salvatore. Their bond remained strong throughout their lives, and Anthony will now be laid to rest beside his brother and parents.

From an early age, Anthony possessed a natural drive, curiosity, and talent for building and creating. He began his career in Hartford, where he established Caruso Wallcovering, laying the foundation for a lifetime of entrepreneurial achievement. In 1960, he moved to Southern California, where he founded Lamvin, Inc., refining a unique machine laminating process that transformed the application of wallcovering into ready-to-install vinyl-covered sheetrock as well as developing a full line of acoustical sound panels for residential and corporate customers.

Anthony lived much of his later life in Lake San Marcos, where he and his wife Carole built a warm and welcoming home filled with family, friends, and countless celebrations. Together for 46 years, they were known for hosting large family and friends holiday gatherings where Anthony’s extroverted nature and generous spirit shone brightly.

Anthony was a man of many passions. He loved the water and spent cherished days boating and fishing on his cabin cruiser. He earned his pilot’s license and delighted in flying a Cessna for pleasure. He was an active member of the Lake San Marcos Golf Club Men’s Group enjoying many rounds with close friends.

Anthony was President of the Exchange Club, belonged to the Junior Chamber of Commerce, as well as several civic and industry associations. Throughout his life, he embraced adventure owning vacation homes in Big Bear for skiing, a beach home in San Felipe, Mexico, and a motor home for extensive travel across the United States.

Above all, Anthony was defined by his humor, warmth, charisma, and deep love for his family. He formed lifelong friendships and nurtured strong relationships that brought people together. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren adored him for his inviting personality, his zest for life, and the steady affection he offered so freely.

Anthony is survived by his wife Carole; his children Michael Caruso, Toni-Marie Zurcher, Gina Welker, Lynda Curtin and Stephen Thomas; and his 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother Salvatore Caruso, his children Linda O’Brien and Laura Caruso, and his grandson Anthony Caruso.

A funeral service will be held at Eternal Hills Mortuary & Cemetery, 1999 El Camino Real, Oceanside, CA 92054 on Saturday, March 14 beginning at 1:00 PM, followed by interment in the family burial site. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the San Diego Human Society or San Diego Salvation Army.

Anthony lived a life rich with purpose, adventure, and love. His legacy will continue in the stories shared, the memories cherished, and the family who will forever hold him close.