We've known Tony, Bea and all the kids for about 20+ years, since our kids were in school together. Our first encounter was out in front of Bea's mom's house and Nick and Tony met, spending the next several hours (maybe not that long, but it was close!) getting to know each other, neither of them at a loss for words, plus finding out they had a lot in common. They both loved going to Dale Hardware and "browsing" for whatever was on the list. Nick would announce he had to run to Dale "really quick", HOWEVER, several hours later, he'd come home with a very newsy update on the girls, the 49er's, etc., because they ran into each other there....MIA for hours. I remember Bea and I having a discussion about that - the best way to keep the girls in line was to THREATEN to drag them with their dads to any kind of store if they didn't behave - the reaction was universal; the girls would start crying and making promises to behave. Tony and Nick would occasionally go the 49er's games together; Tony's idea of tailgating with the guys brought food (bbq, etc) and alcohol to an all new level. Nick would wander home after the game in a food coma, and start describing in detail, the "menu". I'm eating a Lean Cuisine dinner and he's talking ribs, chicken, etc.. fine.
Tony, the guy who was never at a loss for words, loved his family, spoiling his grandbabies, and no matter where we'd run into each other, he always had that famous smile on his face, and his laugh was epic. Very distinct.
Heaven has gained a very unorthodox angel; baseball cap backwards, shorts, tank top, and he's probably following St. Peter around, giving him tips on how to improve on ways to tinker or build something.
Tony - your laugh and smile will remain with us forever; I know you're keeping a very close eye on that beautiful family of yours. Our prayers and thoughts are with Bea, the girls, all those adorable grandbabies, and extended family. We're really going to miss you, buddy - Hugs and Kisses :0)
Bea