Tony Marazita, 79, of Sturgis, Mich., died on Sept. 27. Tony was the son of the late Frank and Josephine (Tignanelli) Marazita. He began his career at his father’s business: the Michigan Fruit Co. Tony went on to work at the Bendix Corp. before serving his country during the Korean War in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. After receiving an honorable discharge, he rejoined Bendix. And in 1954, he established and opened the Mara Sweet Shop in Sturgis, featuring hand-dipped chocolates, homemade ice cream, malts, pizza and sandwiches.

Tony founded Marazita Candy Co. in 1986. It originally sold sugar and sugar-free candy, with the bulk of its selection in the former; today, Marazita specializes in sugar-free. Tony retired in spring 2001 to spend time with his family, community and church. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Delphine.