Anthony M. “Tony” Dears, 86 years, of Brockton passed away unexpectedly November 15, 2010 at the Champion Rehabilitation Center in Brockton. Tony was the son of the late Antonio and Maria "Mary"(Martin) Dears, as well as brother of the late Joseph Dias. He is survived by two nieces, Michelle Brewer of North Attleboro and Danielle Dias of Taunton.
Tony was born on December 14, 1923 in Portugal. He was a lifelong resident of Brockton after coming to America from Portugal in 1933. At the age of 17 he became employed by the Art Leather Company of S. Braintree where he worked for 31 years, retiring in 1971. Soon after he was drafted into the Army and served in WWII from 1941-1944. Tony and his battalion arrived at Anzio Beachhead to heavy battle, then while out on patrol was gravely wounded then captured by the enemy. He spent his last 18 months of service missing in action and as a prisoner of war. He received a purple heart, a bronze star and other combat decorations.
Tony was an avid sports fan and loved all the Boston teams. In his younger days he played fast pitched softball. He loved to bowl, fish and had a green thumb too. His garden was as large as his home and he enjoyed giving the fruits of his labor away to friends and neighbors.
He was very active in the Veterans of Foreign War. He also spent many weekends traveling to Portuguese Fiestas where he enjoyed listening to his favorite music and eating his favorite foods.
Even though Tony never married and had a family of his own, he was “Uncle” to those who knew him best. He had many friends but his best friend for over 67 years was Alan Enos. Tony enjoyed an “adoptive” family with Alan and Betty Enos and their family for over 50 years. A testament to their friendship was naming Alan’s only son after Tony. Uncle will be sadly and greatly missed.
There will be a graveside service in the Massachusetts National Cemetery Bourne Tueasday December 7, 2010 at 10:45am. Relatives and friends are welcome.