Anthony “Sam” Fonda, known affectionately as Sonny, Bone, Da, and Pop, passed away peacefully in the warm company of the love of his life, Lois. Sam was a longtime resident of West Haven and later, Northford, Connecticut. He was born in New Haven in 1941 to Louis and Anna (Audi) Fonda. Sam dedicated many years of his life to working as a truck driver, with the majority of his career spent at LenCrete and Suzio. He eventually retired to cherish more precious moments with his wife, Lois, and to spend more time making memories with his children and grandchildren.  Sam’s love story with Lois began in the early 1960s when they met at Old Savin Rock in West Haven. Their whirlwind romance culminated in a beautiful wedding in 1964. Together, they welcomed four beautiful children and ten wonderful grandchildren over the following years.  Sam had a green thumb and a talent for woodworking, both of which he often pursued alongside Lois. His garden was a sight to behold, winning beautification awards and earning the admiration of the neighborhood. Sam was a lover of nature and frequently took long walks to the park or the beach with a loaf of bread to feed the birds, a cherished ritual that he maintained for many years. He was also a fierce poker player and hosted countless family card nights, never hesitating to test his luck and skill, even against his grandkids. Sam always spoke his mind with the protection and best interest of his loved ones in mind. Sam was predeceased by his mother, Anna (Audi) Fonda, his father, Louis J. Fonda Sr., and his son, Anthony Fonda Jr. He was also predeceased by his siblings Lucia Friello, Louis J. Fonda Jr., Mary Ann Rusate, and Albert Fonda. Sam is survived by his loving wife, Lois (Velardi), and his children, Louis A. Fonda Sr. (Melinda), Jennifer Davis (Stephen), and Christopher Fonda. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Samantha Ouellette (Thomas), Louis A. Fonda Jr., Victoria Davis, Stephen Davis, Julia Fonda, Zachary Fonda, Heather Fonda, Tino Fonda, Anthony Fonda III, and Alexandria Fonda. Additionally, Sam is survived by his siblings, John Fonda Sr. and Ralph Fonda, as well as a very special sister-in-law, Sandra Fonda. Sam leaves behind countless nieces, nephews, and cousins who played significant roles in his life. Sam’s affection also extended to Phoebe, the dog he adopted with his beloved wife Lois. Though he may not have openly admitted it, he cherished his daily snuggles with Phoebe.  Anthony “Sam” Fonda will be remembered for his warm heart, love for family and green thumb. He placed great value on hard work and the unwavering love and care he extended to those he considered family. He leaves behind a legacy of enduring memories created with his beloved wife and adored children and grandchildren. Sam’s presence touched the lives of many, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

The visiting hours will be Thursday Oct. 26th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at The Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 57 Pond Hill Rd, North Haven on Friday morning, Oct. 27th at 10:00. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The CT Hospice, Inc., 100 Double Beach Road, Branford, CT 06405.