Anthony LaRussa

Anthony La Russa was born at home in Brooklyn, NY on May 10, 1924 to Stefano La Russa and Egilia Lombardo. He is preceded in death by his siblings Salvatore, Francesco, Rosina and Maria. He is survived by his sister Rita and her husband Alan. Anthony attended New York City P.S. 81, where he was a standout athlete receiving a gold medal in the school decathalon in 1942. The local newspaper described a few of his remarkable feats; “chinned 18 times, did 49 pushups from the floor, broad jumped 9 feet and high jumped 5 feet.” In the journalist’s words “In our opinion, this chap is quite a gent.”

After graduating from high school, Anthony was keen on joining the United States Military and serving his country in the midst of WWII. He enlisted in the Navy where he began some of the “best years of his life.” His Navy tours took him all over the world and produced many fascinating stories which he enjoyed recanting to his family, friends and any stranger willing to listen. Anthony was well loved by his shipmates and recognized for his leadership abilities as he attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Anthony retired from the Navy in 1962 and transitioned into the Civil Service as an Electronics Technician.

While stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, Anthony met and married his “heart and soul”, Betty Tucker in 1954. They were married for 66 wonderful years and raised three children Michael, Susan and Stephen. He was a faithful servant of God, and he and Betty were confirmed together into the Episcopal faith. Anthony enjoyed learning and followed his interests which led him to designing and building his own house, landscaping a gorgeous yard and planting a plentiful garden, earning certificates in welding and refrigeration, and repairing and maintaining automobiles. Devoted to his family, he coached his sons’ baseball teams and volunteered with the Boy Scouts. His favorite pastime was socializing at the Rec Center gym and bench-pressing more weight than the kids half his age.

Anthony touched the lives of many people with his willingness to help others and talk to anyone. He loved spoiling his grandchildren and passed down his love of cookies and ice cream.

He will be missed by many.