Anthony George Ruggiero

Tony was born and raised in the Bridgeport area of Chicago. He graduated from St. Ignatius High School and DePaul University. He then followed his dream to become a disc jockey and attended Chicago School of Broadcasting. His first on-air job was in Morris, IL in 1964. There he met his future wife, Chatka, who hosted a teen-age show at the same radio station. Chatka arranged for Tony to host "record hops" with many nationally known bands -The Buckinghams, Shadows of Knight, Chicago, etc. Tony transferred to WKKD in Aurora, then WJOB in Hammond, Ind. There, local women formed a fan club named "Tony's Turtles". The final and most successful career move was to WFYR (Fire radio) in Chicago where he ended up with his own radio show at the FYR station nightclub on the top of the McCormick Inn. On weekends he interviewed in person all the famous music stars like the Jackson Five, the Lettermen, Johnny Cash, Neil Diamond, Frankie Avalon, etc.

In January 1979 he decided to retire from his radio career and join his wife in her career of purchasing apartment bldgs., shopping centers, Florida condos, etc. He also joined the Oak Park Country Club and learned to play golf .. .for enjoyment only! Tony was a loving person, always talkative, and loved their world travels.

Tony is survived by Chatka his wife of 55 years, stepsons Emerson Bolen (Isla), Clifford Bolen (Denise), and Lawrence Bolen. Also, sister-in-law Erika Poletti (Arthur). He was the brother of Marilyn Petraski (deceased), Rosemary Waitkus. Geraldine DiFoggiq, and George Ruggiero (Ruth). Step-grandchildren Emerson Bolen,Jr, Patrick Bolen, Amanda Bolen, Lindsey Bolen, Mitchell Bolen, Bradford Bolen and great-grandchild Cassie Lee Bolen, and manv. nieces, nephews, and cousins. Celebration of life is being planned.

In his memory, donations can be made to his favorite charity, Animal Care League in Oak Park. animalcareleague.org