Anthony J. LaBarbera, 79, of North Tonawanda died peacefully Saturday (June 26, 2004) at his residence with his family present. Anthony was a member of Ascension R.C. Church. He was a WWII U.S. Marine Corps Veteran who served from 1943-1945 in the Pacific Theater and he was a proud member of Conrad Kania Detachment #230. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Madonna Council #2535 and the Renaissance Club of North Tonawanda. Anthony had worked at Ruslander and Sons for over twenty years and then the General Motors Tonawanda Forge Plant from which he retired. Anthony also owned and operated The Custom Metal Shop. Anthony loved his family, golfing, music and sports. After the war, he played professional football with the Hamilton Wildcats as a fullback and kicker for one year. Passing before him were his father and mother Salvatore and Sarah LaBarbera and his beloved granddaughter Jamie LaBarbera. Brother of the late Joseph, Alphonse, Frank LaBarbara and Nina Klemann.

Beloved husband of Josephine (nee Scarfone) LaBarbera of North Tonawanda. Loving father of James (Mari) LaBarbera of North Tonawanda, Paul (Laura) LaBarbera of New Jersey, Susan (Michael) Zobrist of North Tonawanda, Sharon (Kenneth) Mills of Springville and Daniel (Lisa) LaBarbera of Wheatfield. Loving grandfather of Nicholas (Sarah), Scott, Paul Jr., Mark and Elizabeth LaBarbera., Vincent Zobrist and Justin, Kyle, Nathan, Anthony and Rachel Mills. Son-in-law of Rose Miano. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Friends received by the family on Monday evening 7-9 PM and Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Brunner Funeral Home, 156 Robinson Street where services will be held on Wednesday morning at 9:00 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 from Ascension R.C. Church. Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. If desired, memorials may be made in Anthony’s name to the Ascension Church Restoration Fund, 168 Robinson Street, North Tonawanda, NY 14120.