Anthony M. "Tony" Canella

Anthony M. "Tony" Canella

Anthony M. "Tony" Canella, age 89, of Erie, died Friday, November 8, 2013 at Saint Vincent Health Center after a brief illness.

He was born January 24, 1924 in North East, PA, a son of the late James and Josephine Pellicano Canella.

He served in the United States Army during World War II in the European Theatre.

Tony owned and operated the Friendly Tavern for 21 years.

He was an usher for many years at Blessed Sacrament Church and a former member of The East Erie Turners.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Antoinette B. "Ann" Viggiano Canella; and a sister, Nellie Iannello DiPlacido.

He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Karen A. Canella of Luray, VA; a brother, Joseph Canella of Erie and two sisters-in-law, Louise and Dolores Viggiano. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass on Monday at Blessed Sacrament Church, 1626 West 26th Street, Erie, PA 16508, at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Blessed Sacrament Church or The Carmelite Monastery, 510 E. Gore Rd., Erie, PA 16509. The John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry Street, is handling arrangements.