Those who knew Aldo Tatangelo often describe him as a larger-than-life figure, a man who left an indelible mark on the city of Laredo, Texas. Born on September 16, 1913, in Providence, Rhode Island, Tatangelo was the son of Italian immigrants. His upbringing in a tight-knit immigrant community instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep sense of civic duty.
As a young man, Tatangelo worked for his father's jewelry business, learning the value of hard work and entrepreneurship. However, it was in the boxing ring that he truly found his passion. His skills as a boxer caught the attention of the United States Navy, and Tatangelo served with honor during World War II.
After his military service, Tatangelo moved to Laredo, Texas, where he saw an opportunity to make a difference in the community. The city, long plagued by corruption and cronyism, was in desperate need of a leader who would put the needs of the people first. Tatangelo saw this as his calling and threw himself into local politics.
During his tenure as Mayor from 1978 to 1990, Tatangelo implemented numerous reforms that transformed Laredo into a thriving and prosperous city. One of his most significant achievements was the resurfacing of many of the city's roads, a project that not only improved transportation infrastructure but also created much-needed jobs for local residents.
But Tatangelo's vision for Laredo went beyond just fixing potholes. He sought to dismantle the entrenched patronage system that had long dominated city politics, replacing it with a more transparent and accountable government. His efforts were not always well-received by the old guard, but Tatangelo remained steadfast in his commitment to serving the people of Laredo.
Throughout his six-decade marriage to Alice Natali DeLong Tatangelo, Aldo Tatangelo remained devoted to his family and his community. Together, they raised three children who shared their father's passion for public service.
After leaving office, Tatangelo continued to be involved in local politics, serving on various boards and committees. He was a respected voice in the community, sought out for his wisdom and experience. Tatangelo's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the lasting impact he made on the city of Laredo.
As a Texas Democrat and Mayor of a major city, Aldo Tatangelo showed that true leadership is about more than just holding office - it's about making a difference in the lives of others. His story serves as an inspiration to all who seek to make their mark on the world.
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