Anthony            Caraluzzi, Sr, Bethel Food Market Founder

Anthony Caraluzzi, Sr, age 95, of Bethel, formerly of Redding, died July 24 at his residence. He was the husband of the late Julia (Pennachio) Caraluzzi.

He was born in Bronx, N.Y., December 9, 1907, son of the late Louis and Filomena (DiTori) Caraluzzi. After a 27-year career with Gristede Brothers Grocery chain in Manhattan, he fulfilled a lifelong dream to own his own business.

In 1949, Tony and Julia founded the Bethel Food Market. “Tony’s Market,” as it was affectionately known, became a part of the fabric of life in the community. Tony loved every minute of it, and his work was a labor of love. His teachings and good works will be his legacy.

He is survived by four sons and their spouses, Louis and Rosemarie Caraluzzi of Bethel; Edward and Pamela Caraluzzi of Redding; Robert and Carol Caraluzzi of Bridgewater; and Anthony and Roberta Caraluzzi, Jr, of Redding; a sister, Catherine Santangelo of Bethel; 12 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated July 28 at St. Mary Church, Bethel. Burial was in St Mary Cemetery.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the Anthony and Julia Caraluzzi Family Scholarship Fund, Western Connecticut State University, 181 White Street, Danbury, CT 06810, or to the charity of one’s choice.

The Newtown Bee        August 1, 2003