Anthony E. Tenerelli

BENTON HARBOR – Anthony (Tony) E. Tenerelli, 84, of Benton Harbor, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 22, 2008, at his home. Friends may visit with the family from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and may attend a prayer service at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 28, at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. A private burial will be held for the immediate family following the service. Donations may be made to Hospice at Home of southwest Michigan or to St. Bernard’s Catholic Church for memorial mass. Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starksmenchinger.com. Tony was born on August 9, 1923, in Chicago, IL to Vito and Catherine (Chiarito) Tenerelli. He moved to the Benton Harbor area in 1943 with his family when they purchased the former Old Mill Tourist Court Motel and Restaurant. On March 30, 1967, he married Mariethel Fry in South Bend, IN. Tony was employed by Whirlpool Corporation for 32 years prior to his retirement in 1982. He was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church and was an usher there for many years. Tony was devoted to his family and was happiest spending time with his wife, grandchildren, daughter, sisters and brothers. He enjoyed gardening, attending to his yard and was an avid Notre Dame football and Duke basketball fan. In his earlier years, he enjoyed boating, fishing and dancing. Tony was a friend to many and was always willing to extend a helping hand to those in need. Tony is survived by his wife, Mariethel; his daughter, Lisa (Buck) Smith of Saint Joseph; two grandsons, Carter and Cooper Smith; three brothers, Joseph Tenerelli of Buffalo Grove, IL, Nick (Bette) Tenerelli of Stevensville, and Vito (Geri) Tenerelli of Tampa, Fl; four sisters, Marie (Ron) Moor of Hot Springs Village, AR, Laurie (Ed) Kruger and Theresa Tenerelli Knight, both of Stevensville, and Cathy Hormann of South Haven; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother, Phil Tenerelli and his parents, Vito and Catherine.