Anthony M. "Tony" Durban II

Anthony M. "Tony" Durban II, of the Masonic Village, died Tuesday, April 24, 2012.

Born Feb. 17, 1917 in Pittsburgh, Tony played the guitar for various bands as a youngster, including one year with Herb Fritschie's stage band. He then played at various clubs with small groups that included Eroll Garner as pianist. His first day-time job was with the Joseph Horne Department Store.

Tony left to serve four years in the U.S. Army Air Force; he served his last year in Okinawa. He returned home to Horne's and met and married Violet Hopson who worked in the same decorating department. After a few moves, they formed their own decorating company and did work for many Pittsburgh decorating firms. After selling the business, Tony worked for Armstrong Store Fixtures. In 1979 Tony and Violet moved to Florida and continued to work for Armstrong until retirement.

Tony was preceded in death by his wife Violet (Hopson) Durban. He is survived by one son, James (Joanne); five grandsons, Anthony Ill (Denise), Mark, Gregory (Beth), James (Amber) and Jeffrey (Nicci). He is also survived by seven great-grandchildren.

Tony was a member of the North Hills Masonic Lodge, Tampa Shrine, Dunedin Elks, Clearwater American Legion, the VFW and AMVETS.

Friends will be received 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Saturday at the , 806 Perry Highway. Services and interment will follow in Clearwater, FL.