Racine – Antonio “Tony” Marcos Sabala, 58, affectionately known as Anton or Uncle T, passed away unexpectedly and was born to eternal life on Saturday, April 14, 2012, at Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints. He was surrounded by the love of his sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Tony was born in Racine on July 5, 1953, son of the late Nicolas and Pauline (nee: Garcia) Sabala, Sr.
Tony attended Wadewitz Elementary school. He was an exemplary volunteer at Lincoln Lutheran Skilled Care Nursing Home where he was honored at a reception for his years of dedicated service. He participated in Sunshine Club, a program offered by the RADD (Recreational Activities for the Developmentally Disabled). Tony was also involved in RCOC (Racine County Opportunity Center) and The Arc of Racine, helping to serve special needs in the community.
A devout Catholic, Tony was a faithful member of Cristo Rey Parish. He loved to travel despite his physical limitations. He enjoyed sites such as Disney World, The Texas Alamo, New Orleans, South Dakota, and Minnesota. Tony’s favorite holiday was the 4thof July since his birthday was the 5th. He always attended the Racine 4thof July parade where he could be seen waving to all the firefighters, police officials, and alderman. He loved to dance in his chair to the musical floats. Above all, he especially loved spending time with his family. Tony will be missed by all those who loved him.
Tony is survived by his siblings, Janie (Joe) Coca, Sr. of Georgia, Julia (Ray) Hernandez, Mary Sabala, Nicolas (Jane) Sabala, Jr., Dora (Joseph) Morones, Adela Sanchez, Sirildo (Olga) Sabala, all of Racine; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many dear friends too numerous to mention. In addition to his parents, Tony is preceded in death by his brother, Jesse R. Sabala; nephew, Richard Coca; great-nieces, Theresa Moreno, and Angelica Bernal.
During his life, Tony received Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Therefore, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, April 19, 2012, 11am, at Cristo Rey Parish, 800 Wisconsin Avenue, with Rev. Antony Thomas officiating. Visitation will be held at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home, 4600 County Line Road, on Wednesday, April 18, 2012, from 4pm until 7pm. A Rosary service will be led by Deacon Roberto Fuentes at 6pm. Visitation will resume at the church at 10am on Thursday prior to the Mass. The family has suggested memorials to the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (www.aacpdm.org).
Gregory S Yanasak says
My sincere wishes to all the family that prayers and healing follows the sadness. Tony was loved by many. I always enjoyed spending time with him and when I served my position at Ridgewood Care Center my time with him was never enough for me. I loved him much for who he was and is in spirit. Love and Light to you and yours. I plan to attend the Thursday service!