Anthony J. Pistello

He was born May 25, 1917 in Chicago to Joseph and Carmela (DiNadio) Pistello.He married Bernice M. Simpson in Chicago on Aug. 25, 1940.She preceded him in death on Nov. 4, 2009.He was also preceded by his parents; son-in-law, Dr. Gerald Couri; 2 great-grandsons, Anthony and Peter Couri; 5 sisters and 3 brothers.

Surviving Tony are his 2 daughters, Diana (Tim) Couri-O’Hanlon of Peoria, Nancy (Webb) Hayne of Chicago; 9 grandchildren, Jerry (Heather) Couri, Kelly (Mike) McNamara, Brian (Eileen) Couri, Chris (Mary Lou) Couri, Dan (Amy) Couri, Tim Couri, Gina (Rob) Carroll, Diana (Matt) LaHood, Spencer Hayne; and brother, Joe (Geri) Pistello.He is the proud great-grandfather of 34 great-grandchildren.Julie Payton held a special place in Tony's heart.

He worked at Spiegel Inc. for 40 years retiring as Superintendent in 1976.

Tony spent his entire life dancing to the music of the Big Bands until he was 96. When the Jitterbug made its debut in Chicago he was one of the first to learn to dance and teach those in his neighborhood.He was an outstanding athlete and excelled in baseball and speed skating and was all city in basketball in 1936.He was also an avid and excellent golfer scoring in the low 70’s and enjoyed giving tips to anyone who wanted to learn.

Tony never tired of giving constructive advice and truly shared much wisdom.He was vibrant, dapper and a driving force in many people’s lives.Being a man of strong faith, he had a special devotion to the Blessed Mother.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 12, 2014 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria with a rosary at 8 p.m.Funeral Mass will be on Thursday, March 13, 2014 at 11 a.m. at St. Sharbel Catholic Church in Peoria, with visitation one hour prior to the service.Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Peoria.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.Online condolences may be made at www.woolsey-wilton.com.