Mr. Vitale was a proud first generation son of his mother, Anna Esposito Vitale and his father, Vitale Vitale. Born in a largely Italian neighborhood in Brooklyn on October 17th, 1931, only days after his mother Anna arrived in their newly adopted country. Tony couldn’t have been more proud of his family, his heritage and his country.
After falling for his high school sweetheart, then Angela Viola, Tony was drafted into the army during the Korean war where he served honorably and with pride. Not long after returning from his time in the Army, Tony wasted no time proposing Angela Viola become Angela Vitale, which began their marriage of nearly 65 years.
Hardworking and destined for success, Tony then partnered with Bruno Saudino, together forming a furniture manufacturing business that went on to grow larger than their wildest dreams.
Tony is survived by his wife, Angela; and two children, Diane and Gregg. In addition, Tony leaves behind 5 grandchildren, namely Gabriella, Anthony Cameron, Emerson, James and Brian, in descending age order. Most recently, Tony was blessed with his first great-grandchild, Rylie, daughter of his eldest granddaughter, Gabriella.
He is also survived by two of his four sisters, Rita DeLuise and Yolanda Gruseke and their respective families, all of whom he loved so very dearly. Never to be forgotten, was the loss of his two other much loved sisters, Vincenza and Candida, whose memories he kept alive with never-ending stories about them.
A devoted member of many boards and member of the Knights of Columbus, Tony was a devout member of St. Mark’s Parish here in Wilmington. He had a love of God and family that made him a wonderful husband, a great Dad and loving brother, grandfather and uncle. Not a man easily forgotten once met, Tony will be sorely missed by family and friends alike.
A visitation will be held from 5 to 7pm on Thursday, January 10, 2019 at Coble Ward-Smith Funeral & Cremation Service. The Funeral Mass will be held 11am on Friday, January 11, 2019 at St. Mark Catholic Church, 1011 Eastwood Rd, Wilmington. Inurnment will be held at Oleander Memorial Gardens.
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