Antonio Rosario Martell, 66, of Battle Creek, Michigan, passed away on Friday, October 14, 2016 at Bronson at Home Hospice Residence. He was born in Puerto Rico on January 17, 1950, the son of Higinio Rosario and Ramona Martell.
Antonio was raised in Harlem, New York. He worked as a boxing coach and upholsterer for many years prior to relocating to Battle Creek, MI. Antonio was a wonderful upholsterer and eventually retired from New York Custom Upholstery and window treatments in Battle Creek. His passion for boxing led him to coach and train other young men in the area. He was trained by the legendary Sugar Ray Robinson while he was living in New York City. Antonio is the founder of Sugar Tony Boxing Academy in Battle Creek. His passion was to teach the art of the sport as well as the discipline and the heart of the sport.
Antonio is survived by his Wife of 35 years - Evelyn Rosario; Son, Antonino (Dawn) Rosario; Daughters, Carilyn (Erick) Rivera, Suellen (Troy) Williams, and Natasha Rosario; Grandchildren, Karina, Edwin, Kelvin, Troy (TJ), Roxie, Xavier, Junito, Mia, Isaac, and Miracle; Sisters, Delia (William) Matos, Gloria (David) Aponte; Sister-in-law, Wanda Rosario and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loving family. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Ramona Martell, and Brother, Wilson Rosario.
Antonio's life long hobby was to fly homing pigeons. One of his last requests before he left home was to see his homing pigeons fly; a dream came true when he saw them fly. Antonio was a man of God and a family man. He was very devoted to his wife and family and adored spending his time with them. Antonio had a heart of gold and loved to see good happen to people; he will be missed dearly by all the lives he has touched over the years. His fear and love of the Lord was with him until his very last breathe.