Anthony Robert "Tony" Tempesta

Anthony Robert Tempesta, age 95, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on September 13th, 2025. He was born May 4th, 1930, in Northeast Minneapolis to Anthony and Grace Tempesta.

Tony grew up in Northeast Minneapolis, relocated to Cumberland, and graduated from Cumberland High School in 1948. Shortly after, he proudly joined the United States Marine Corps and served in the Korean War, beginning a lifetime defined by service, dedication, and strength of character.

Following his military service, Tony built a long and successful career as a real estate broker and developer. His professionalism, vision, and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike, and his work left a lasting mark on the communities he served.

In 1973, Tony made his home in Isanti, Minnesota. There, in 1979, he married Carolyn Capra, his devoted wife and partner of 46 years and made her an instant mother of six. Together, they became deeply involved in their community. Tony served as a proud member of the Isanti Lions Club for 36 years; his children called him the "lion king". Tony generously gave his time and energy to support local projects and neighbors in need.

Nothing made Tony happier than spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. With a lively group of 21 offspring, there were many campfires, shot guns at midnight on New Year's Eve, horse betting, tobogganing behind the car, fishing trips, birthday parties, family dinners, Tempesta Fiesta's, and random acts of fun. Of course, he was always carrying his camera to capture the memories and have documented reminders for future reference.

Tony lived a full life, and took great pride in celebrating the achievements and milestones of his tribe, such as welcoming a new baby into the chaos; college, high school, and preschool graduations; hockey, baseball, and football games; rodeos, family vacations, weddings, and anything else someone thought needed celebrating.

He had a deep love for the outdoors, fishing and hunting and was playfully described by his kids as a "professional sportsman". Tony had many hobbies and passions, and especially enjoyed traveling and attending social events. As a lifelong horseman, horses were at the center of much of his charitable and personal activity. He was involved with the Caballeros Del Norte for 50 years, a group of horsemen united by their love of horses and the outdoors. He also enjoyed the sport of horse racing and became involved as an owner of several racehorses at Canterbury Downs, sharing his passion for the sport with family and friends. He even created the "Canterbury Express", a fun bus that transported people from around MN to the track.

Tony partnered with Lions Clubs and founded the "Camp New Hope Wagon Train". This was a week-long annual fundraiser to support individuals with special needs and their families to attend "Camp New Hope." The "Wagon Train" featured horses, covered wagons, buggies, cowboys and cowgirls. They rode for over 100 miles during that week. The "Wagon Train" created such strong bonds and special memories for all who participated. Some got engaged and married during the Wagon Train. They saw run-away horses, had lively campfires, and everyone looked forward to going year after year. Tony was the spark behind this charity.

His presence never went unnoticed, his smile and laughter lit up a room. He always knew your name, and enough about you to prolong his exit at least another two hours (and he always blamed Carolyn, aka, the "Capra goodbye").

Tony is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn; children Michael Tempesta (Susie), Kathy Tempesta (Joel), Beaner (Mary) Adolphson (Dave), Kelly Tempesta (Kelly Jo), and Jody (Jonelle) Tempesta; grandchildren Katie, Michael, Rachel, Colin, Colleen, Zechari, Kelsey, Hanna, Jacob, and Zoey; and great-grandchildren Elise, Anthony, Will, Auggie, Cameron, and Ollie, who will all forever cherish his memory and the example he set.

He was preceded in death by his parents Anthony Martin and Grace Irene Tempesta, his brother Gerald Tempesta, sister Beverly (Tempesta) Ranallo, and son Timothy Tempesta.

A visitation will be held Friday, September 26th from 4-7 p.m. at Skinner Funeral Home, 1245 1st Ave. Cumberland, WI. Mass of Christian Burial 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 27th at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 925 Saint Anthony Street Cumberland, with visitation one hour prior to funeral at the church. Military honors will be accorded by AndersonThompson Post #98 American Legion, Cumberland. Please note: luncheon to follow burial at First Lutheran Church 1180 8th Ave. Cumberland. Skinner Funeral Home is servicing the family and a live stream of the funeral will be on the Skinner Funeral Home Facebook page.