Anthony Frank Busateri

Anthony “Tony” Frank Busateri was an energetic man who lived life to the fullest. He was a celebrated athlete, dedicated professional, devoted family member and cherished friend. His enthusiasm for life was infectious, and the things he made happen brought laughter and joy to those around him.

Tony was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on March 8, 1943, when World War II dominated American life. While men sacrificed abroad, women worked valiantly at home to assist the war effort and stabilize the country. Tony’s parents, Anthony and Emily (Borkowatz) Busateri, owned and operated a business—The Sparrow Club on Brady Street—that supported the family and contributed to the local economy. But the family suffered a great loss when Tony’s father died. Just 13 years old at the time, Tony became the man of the house, caring for his mother and older sister Barbara. His sense of responsibility was formed early and remained with him throughout his life.

Tony grew up on the eastside of Milwaukee, attending Maryland Avenue Grade School and Milwaukee East High School (later called Riverside High School). He was active in sports and was especially talented in softball and tennis. In fact, he was one of the area’s best tennis players, winning many tournaments. Not only did he compete, he also taught tennis. He turned his passion and competence into mentorship and organization. He helped many others learn to play the game and, well into his adult life, he played softball and arranged volleyball tournaments. Sports was such a big part of his life that, twice a day, Tony could be found at Le Club athletic facility working out or playing tennis.

Tony’s career in law enforcement began when he worked as a process server for Milwaukee County. This led him to apply and test for the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department. In 1970, he was hired as a Milwaukee County Deputy Sheriff and assigned to patrol the freeway system. Tony really liked his work and took his role seriously. However, there were the lighthearted moments that his nieces and nephews recall. When they were school-aged, Uncle Tony would park in front of their house and call through the loud speaker—“Lazy bums, get out of bed!”—and then drive off with the siren blaring.

Eventually, Tony was transferred to an inside job, working in the jail and later serving as a bailiff under several judges. He retired from the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department in 2004, after 34 years of dedicated service. Yet, he didn’t totally retire. He began working at a Lexus auto dealership, because he was still vigorous and in good health.

Though Tony married twice, with both ending in divorce, he enjoyed being with his extended family. He and his sister were particularly close, and it was very difficult for him when Barbara died in 1998. They had shared so much, including the fun that Tony liked to organize. Because of his fondness for eating, Tony became the founder of “Tony’s Pig Outs,” an event that took place twice a year. Begun in the 1970s, the Pig Outs were an invitation only eat-a-thon that brought people together around food and fun.

With his zest for life, it’s no wonder that Tony was a dog-lover. He could play hard with his pet Schnauzers—Rocky, Stormy, Petee, and Heinzie—and each held a special place in his heart.

Many friends and family members now hold Tony close to their hearts. In September 2009, they waited and prayed for his recovery from a serious auto accident. Very sadly, he died from his injuries on Sunday, October 4, 2009.

All who had the privilege of knowing Tony will miss him dearly and remember him lovingly as a wonderful nephew, cousin, uncle and friend.

Anthony F. Busateri, age of 66 of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was preceded in death by his parents Anthony and Emily (nee Borkowatz) Busateri and his sister Barbara Lerback. He was the dear nephew of Bertha Busateri, JoAnne Busateri and Marion Busateri and beloved uncle of Tony (Carey) North, Mary Wick (Benny), Barbara (Vince) Sammataro and Bobby (Marlene) North. He is further survived by 28 first cousins, other relatives and friends. Visitation is scheduled for Friday, October 9, at the Funeral Home from 4:00 pm until time of the Prayer Service at 7:30 PM. Interment Holy Cross cemetery. The family wishes to thank the nursing staff of Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital N.I.C.U. unit for their compassionate care. The family was served by Suminski Family Funeral Homes, Suminski/Weiss, 1901 N. Farwell Ave (414) 276-5122. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to archive a memory or photo of Tony or to sign the online guest register.