Anthony "Tony" Louis Gozola

Died peacefully at home in the care of Park Nicollet Home Hospice.

He was born May 24th, 1922, the 3rd youngest of 10 children to Mary and Adam Gozola.  His family was raised in the Catholic tradition, which he honored deeply and cherished throughout his life.  Tony was a graduate of North High School in Minneapolis, after which he proudly served our Country in WWII for 6 years.  He enlisted in the Navy and was aboard the USS Hancock aircraft carrier.  His official job was plane captain, making sure the pilot was set to fly.  His end rank was Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class.  Following the war, he became a member of the Dominic Club (for Catholic singles), where he met the love of his life, Rosella Benzick.  They married on June 17th, 1950, in a small country church in Lexington Township.  To provide for his family, Tony was a truck driver for most of his adult life, working for American Fruit and Produce.  He enjoyed all sports, playing baseball in the Navy, and of course watching all his favorite Minnesota teams: MN Twins, Vikings, and his favorite, the Golden Gopher football team.  He was an avid bowler, coach for St. Louis Park Little League teams, and the best fan of his grandsons’ sports.  Whether it was sports, arts or academics, he was there to support all his children and grandchildren.  Tony will be remembered for his spirit of volunteerism with the Knights of Columbus, especially helping organize endless pancake breakfasts for the church.  He was a long time member of the VFW, now Post #7051 St. Louis Park, Golden Valley, and was the bugler for the Ritual Squad.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rosella; parents, Mary and Adam; brothers, Walt, Frank, John, Joe, Andy, and George; sisters, Rose and Florence; and daughter, Karen (Chris).

Tony’s greatest joy was his family.  We were all graced by the love he showed us.  He is survived by his sister, Lorraine (Vic); daughters, Ann (Scott) and Claire (John); sons, Mike (Kathy), Greg (Cindy), and Jerry (Vilanhda); grandchildren, Ben, Mikey, Sam, Christine, Emily, Josh, and Carl; and great-grandchildren, Jack and Signe.

A very special thanks to all of Tony’s caregivers from Home Instead, Maple Grove.  Also special thanks to Park Nicollet Hospice, especially Heather and Rick.

VFW Ritual service at 7:00 PM.

Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Monday, November 14, 2016 05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Gearty-Delmore St. Louis Park Chapel 3960 Wooddale Avenue South St. Louis Park, MN 55416

VFW Ritual service at 7:00 PM.

Tuesday, November 15, 2016 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM

The Church of the Holy Family 5900 West Lake Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426

Tuesday, November 15, 2016 10:00 AM

The Church of the Holy Family 5900 West Lake Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426

Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Tuesday, November 15, 2016 02:30 PM - 04:30 PM

Edina Country Club 5100 Wooddale Avenue Edina, MN 55424