The Wildwood Park Neighborhood Association (WPNA) of San Bernardino, California recently paid tribute to Anthony "Tony" Marzullo, their past president, and community member of WPNA. A ceremony dedicating the flagpole to Tony's memory was held on Saturday, January 28, where 150+ family, friends, co-workers, City dignitaries and community members gathered to honor him. Tony gave selflessly to his community, working in partnership for many years with others to improve the ball fields and park grounds of Wildwood Park. He led the WPNA for a decade until his untimely passing in March of 2022.
As President of the Board, he had a natural ability to inspire and motivate. Under his leadership, the Association conducted many activities including informative meetings, neighborhood crime intervention, community clean-ups, and Christmas celebrations in the park. Tony was instrumental in these accomplishments with his positive energy, generous nature, and "get 'er done" attitude. He loved his community and his country; he often remarked that a flagpole (and flag) would be a perfect addition to the entrance of Wildwood Park– and now, it stands as a tribute to his love and dedication to the Wildwood Park Neighborhood Association Community.
The ceremony was opened and closed with a prayer from Pastor Scottie Lloyd of the Lutheran Church of Our Savior (now called Spirit of Our Savior). Special messages were given from the current WPNA president, Veronica Munoz, Neighborhood Association Council representative Lynne Wear, and Councilmember Fred Shorett. The audience also heard heartfelt comments from Tony's children; LT, Chris, and Tiffany. The Public Safety Academy of San Bernardino Color Guard presented the colors to Tony's brothers, Emil and Paul Marzullo, who raised the flag, while his niece, Emily Cardoza Marzullo sang the National Anthem, accompanied by his nephew, Tim Cummins. Tony's grandchildren led the flag salute after which everyone joined in singing America the Beautiful.
The cost of the flagpole and its installation was made possible by the generous financial support of many individuals who donated to a GoFundMe account, cash donations, and in-kind services City of San Bernardino Lydie Gutfield, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, Ernesto Salinas, Operations and Maintenance manager of Public Works and Sean McClintock were instrumental in expediting the project from inception to completion. UC Fence owner Jason Valenzuela donated the installation of the marker at the pole's base.
Tony’s memory will wave high above Wildwood Park for generations to come as an example of his commitment to public service.