Tony Michael Lake

Tony (lala) Lake, 59, of West Simsbury passed away September 13, 2018 at his home, compassionately and lovingly accompanied by his soulmate and wife, his children, family and the spirit of every person he called friend. Tony was born August 5th, 1959 in Los Angeles, CA. to his mother Margaret Vaughn and father Orville Lake. Tony leaves behind four sisters; Theresa Ferrell, Betty Jo Spiering, Bobbi Jenson and Denise Dental.

After six years of service to his country as a Navy Sea-Bee, Tony motorcycled from Oregon to Connecticut. There, in 1984, he found his bride, Donna LeConche, and become a super dad to Melissa Braidich and Mia Soucy. Donna and Tony added two more riders to their team, son Michael and daughter Maggie. Over the years Team Lake grew through the efforts of fellow riders and son-in-law’s Jason Braidich and Mick Ferraro, with the additions of grandchildren Taylor, Lily, Gracie, and Stella Braidich, Hudson and Hendrix Ferraro; and faithfully running beside Team Lake was their dog Savannah.

A Master Carpenter who worked in both residential and commercial construction, Tony was a member of the Hartford Carpenters Union for 13 years. In 1996 he joined LIUNA and used his wide range of skills at the New England Laborers’ Training Academy in Pomfret. Tony loved life and had a desire for continual personal growth. He became an avid and talented mountain biker at the age of 43 and continued to ride even after being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.

Tony was known by everyone as the “Best.” He represented the best in our humanity by always putting others before himself. Tony demonstrated unparalleled integrity in everything he did. He translated his love of life-long learning into becoming a patient and skillful teacher. Most of all his kindness and wiliness to help, even at a moment’s notice, made him everyone’s go-to-guy. Together with Donna, the love-of-his-life, their marriage was the best example of unconditional love. Donna and Tony ask family and friends, to gather for a Celebration of Life at Penwood State Park Picnic Shelter, 560 Simsbury Road, Bloomfield CT, Saturday, September 22, 11:00-4:30; tribute at 12:30. His last request was to see children, families, friends and co-workers listening to his favorite music, sharing stories and toasting a glass or two. Be casual, bring a chair, blanket or even a friend. Celebrate Tony! For on-line expressions of sympathy, please visit www.desopofuneralchapel.com.