Tony Anselmo

Tony Anselmo, a man whose life was a rich tapestry of dedication, warmth, and steady success, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, in Ventura, California. Born on July 8, 1944, in the enchanting isle of Sicily, Italy, Tony’s journey was marked by an unwavering commitment to family, a profound work ethic, and a zest for the simple and heartfelt pleasures of life.

At the tender age of 14, Tony began his lifelong vocation as an electrician in Italy, demonstrating a dedication to craft and precision that would define his career. In 1962, at just 18 years old, he emigrated to the United States with his family, settling in Chicago and embracing new opportunities with characteristic resolve. It was at Kuppenheimer Clothing Manufacturer that he found not only work as a Presser and Quality Control Inspector but also love, meeting his wife Margaret (nee Anello), whose partnership anchored his life. Tony’s trajectory led him back to his roots in electrical work, ensuring a comfortable livelihood for his beloved family. His journey took a transformative turn in 1978 when he moved his family to California, where he initially continued his electrical work before discovering his calling in home renovation. From these humble beginnings, Tony's steadfast industriousness and vision flourished, culminating in the establishment of a thriving contracting business, Anselmo Electric. His role evolved from hands-on laborer to general contractor, and eventually to business owner, embodying the true spirit of the American dream. In 1998, he gracefully passed the torch by selling his company to Pinnacle Communications but continued to impart his wealth of knowledge until his well-earned retirement in 2001 at the youthful age of 57.

At the heart of Tony’s life was his deep devotion to his family, whom he cherished above all else. After meeting the love his life, Marge, their shared dedication to hard work sowed the seeds of a lifelong partnership. Together, they built more than a home; they nurtured a space filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories. Tony’s legacy lives on in his loving children, Peter (Kristin) and Lynnette Anselmo; his cherished grandchildren, Lacey Fife, Lauren (Joseph) King, Trinity and Jared Hungerford, and Isabella and Anthony Anselmo; and his adored great-granddaughter, Jordan King. Tony is also survived by his siblings in law, Nancy, Frank (Barbara), Dominic (Antoinette), Joe (Charlotte), and Carmella Anello; many treasured nieces and nephews; and numerous dear friends. He has reunited with his beloved Margaret, whom he deeply missed, along with his parents, Francesca and Pietro Anselmo. Tony’s love for his wife and family remained a guiding light throughout his life.

Tony’s passions extended far beyond his professional accomplishments. Early in his retirement, his crowning achievement was realized when he built their beautiful home in Fillmore, a sanctuary complete with a flourishing farm and orchard. Here, he and Marge cultivated not only the land but a warm haven for family and friends. While Margaret ensured every guest was warmly fed, Tony delighted in serving fresh-squeezed orange juice from his orchard and crafting one of his favorite things, the perfect espresso, embodying the generosity and hospitality rooted in his Sicilian heritage.

Surrounded by nature’s bounty, Tony lived a life of great fulfillment and immense joy. His bright smile beamed with pride as he tended to his crops, including fig trees heavy with fruit, and Italian zucchinis that seemed to grow to heroic proportions, symbols of his steadfast care and labor. Canning tomatoes each year became a treasured tradition, with Tony’s motto to preserve one jar for every other day of the year, generously sharing the surplus with friends and neighbors, reflecting a spirit of abundance and giving.

Music flowed deeply through Tony’s veins. Taught by his father, a music teacher and gifted musician, Tony mastered piano and saxophone, able to conjure melodies by ear. Music was never just a skill; it was his solace and pleasure, enriching his life and the lives of those around him.

Travel and the great outdoors were dear to Tony’s heart. His children fondly recall journeys along the west coast and into Canada, while his grandsons, Jared and Anthony, hold dear a special fishing trip to Oregon, where Tony’s patient guidance taught them the art of fishing. His camper was more than a vehicle; it was a vessel of adventure, enabling countless escapades to numerous fishing spots and family visits, extending from Chicago to Mississippi where his granddaughter Lauren and her family reside. These voyages were not mere trips but cherished chapters in a life well lived.

Known for his calm and easy-going demeanor, Tony possessed a magnetic personality that drew people naturally to him. His patience, soft-spoken manner, and boundless generosity made him a beloved figure among neighbors and friends alike. Always ready to lend a helping hand, his kindness touched many and his presence brought comfort and warmth.

Tony’s proudest accomplishments, beyond the walls of any house or office, were undoubtedly his family and the moral values he instilled in them. His children carry forward his work ethic and integrity—testaments to a father who led by example and loved unconditionally.

As we bid farewell to Tony Anselmo, we remember a life rich with purpose, love, and unshakable resolve. His story is one of humble beginnings, passionate pursuits, and the enduring strength of family bonds. Tony lived fully, loved deeply, and leaves behind a legacy as abundant and nourishing as the farm and orchard he so lovingly tended. His spirit will forever echo in the laughter of family gatherings and the gentle ripple of waters where he so often found peace. In reflecting on his journey, it is clear that Tony lived his best life richly and fully, achieving his dreams and nurturing those of others with equal measure.

A Memorial Visitation will be on held on Friday, May 15th from 10:30 a.m. until time of Memorial Mass at 11:00 a.m. (Pacific time) at San Fernando Mission Cemeteries and Mission Hills Catholic Mortuary, 11160 Stranwood Avenue, Mission Hills, California. (The Mass will be live-streamed and may be viewed by clicking here.) A reception will follow.

Family and friends will gather again on Saturday, May 23rd for an Inurnment Committal Service at 11:00 a.m. (Central time) at All Saints Cemetery, Immaculate Heart of Mary Garden Mausoleum, 700 N. River Road, Des Plaines, Illinois. A reception will follow.