D'ARCANGELO, Tony

Tony D'Arcangelo, 88, left us on March 29th, 2004 to be with our Lord and his beloved wife Clara who preceded him in death on January 5th, 2004. Tony was the last surviving sibling of 5 brothers. Nick D'Arcangelo, Dominick D'Arcangelo, Carmen D'Arcangelo, and Kiddo D'Arcangelo. 2 sisters, Susie Tanno and Anna Rubertino. He is survived by his son Ken D'Arcangelo and daughter Darlene Nelson and their spouses, 6 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He was known to them as "Pappy. Tony arrived in Phoenix in the late 40's and opened his first business, a Gas Station, Trailer Park, and several one room cabin's. It was known as "The Alamo Court" now known as "The Big Apple." Tony had all his business locations on Van Buren. His latest established business was very well known as Tony & Ken's Auto Detailing. Tony was a lifetime member of St. Marks Catholic Church where he was an alter boy. He could never say "No" to anyone. Having all his family and friends over on Sunday's to have a spaghetti dinner or just to hang out and visit. Tony was also a member of the Phoenix Junior Chamber of Commerce, known as the Phoenix J.C.'s, The Moose Club and The Elks Club for years. He was one of the original members to organize the first Arizona American Italian Club, located at that time on 35th St and Van Buren. In 1949 he was voted President. Later the club relocated to 12th St. where he had hammer and nails in hand to help build and organize the New Arizona American Italian Club. But to most he was known as "Santa". Yes, he was the best Italian Santa Claus ever. He captured the magic of Christmas. Through his love of children and fellow man he put aside his time and energy to gladden the hearts of so many for over 47 years. He would leave home along with his "Mrs. Claus" at 5:30 on Christmas Eve and would return home around 11:30. With visits not only to his entire family and friends, he and "Mrs. Claus" would also visit Hospitals, Schools, and the Indian Mission Bashoo. He was a regular at the Arizona Italian Club Children's Christmas Party. Santa can never be far away, for he has left his mark and it will be passed on from generation to generation as it has been for centuries. Here is a man who lived the true spirit of Christmas and by his example will always provide and inspiration to mankind. Tony will always be remembered for his generosity. Good bye "Dad", "Pappy", "Grandpa" and Uncle Tony." Love you and say hello to "Mom" "Nanna" "Grandma" and "Aunt Claire." You will be greatly missed and loved by all who knew you. Visitation with Rosary was held at Paradise Chapel Funeral Home, 3934 E. Indian School Rd. Monday, April 5th. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, April 6th at St. Marks Catholic Church, 400 N. 30th St. Burial services at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery. Donations in his honor may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St. Phoenix, AZ 85014-5656 or St. Marks Educational Fund, 400 N. 30th St, Phoenix, AZ 85008. Published in the Arizona Republic from 4/3/2004 - 4/4/2004.