Carmelo J. Dispenza (AKA Tom) passed away on October 26, 2016 after a short Illness at the age of 93 in Laguna Woods, CA.
He was preceded in death by his parents Nunzio and Rosa Dispenza, his older brother Joseph Dispenza and his wife of 58 years Virginia Dispenza.

Carmelo served his Country in the US Navy during WWII beginning in December of 1943. He served in the Pacific Theater until the Wars end including Combat Operations during the Battle of Iwo Jima. He received an Honorable Discharge in December of 1945, returning to his family and civilian Life.
He and his wife Virginia began their married life in Brooklyn, NY. After the birth of their two sons they moved their family to Long Island, NY where Carmelo and his brother Joseph opened an auto service business.

Carmelo moved his family to Southern CA in 1960, purchasing a home in La Crescenta. There he opened a full service gas station in nearby Altadena. In the mid 1970's he changed careers working as a car salesman in the Anaheim and Carson areas.
Upon retirement, Carmelo and his Wife moved to San Juan Capistrano to be closer to family and eventually moved to Leisure World, now known as Laguna Woods in 2000.

After the death of his wife Virginia in 2001, Carmelo began to immerse himself in varied social activities within the Laguna Woods community. He attended local club functions with his favorites being the many dance and live entertainment venues. He enjoyed participating in these activities until his recent Illness.
During the time Carmelo lived in Laguna Woods, he developed many close friendships. His caring and friendly demeanor helped to nurture those special relationships. Carmelo never met a stranger and they always met a friend.

Carmelo is survived by his two sons, David and Thomas and by his granddaughter Victoria.

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