Tina Acino

LIFESTORY:

Tina Acino never complained or caused conflict, which made everyone – even complete strangers - feel incredibly at ease. Looking back at the life she led lends an even greater appreciation to her presence in the world, a presence that her friends and family will remember for the rest of their lives.

Tina was born in the early twentieth century, a time when America had become the most industrialized country in the world. The availability of products – particularly cars – changed the social climate forever. Countries all over the world idealized America, craving its technology, music, and clothing. The De Betta family, like so many others, believed America was truly the land of opportunity. Michael and his wife, Theresa, decided to uproot their lives in Sicily and move to America. They took with them their few possessions and a dream of making a new and better life.

Although they missed the family and culture they had left behind, Michael and Theresa soon began a family of their own in the southern Louisiana town of Morgan City. By September 22, 1908, Theresa had given birth to the first of her six children. She named the baby girl Tina, and she would grow to be an integral part of the De Betta family. As the oldest child, Tina soon took on much of the household responsibilities. She also began working outside the home, helping to support her growing family.

Meanwhile, Tina’s father Michael worked long hours as an overseer at a local plantation, and Theresa took care of the home and children. Even with three people working, times were very tough. Eventually, Michael decided to move his family north to Chicago in hopes of better job opportunities.

Although jobs were scarce during the Depression era, Tina managed to find a position at a Chicago factory. In fact, Chicago seemed to offer her an abundance of opportunities, including the chance to meet her future husband. She met Joe Acino soon after she arrived in the city, and before she knew it, they were engaged. They married in 1931 and welcomed a son, Joe Jr., in 1932.

The Depression years were very difficult, but luckily Joe and Tina were always able to find work. Even after the Depression was over, Tina continued to work. When she did finally retire, she and Joe moved to Lansing, Michigan. This was where her son, Joe Jr., had settled with his wife Sharon. Tina loved to be near her family, particularly her grandchildren. She became an even larger part of their lives after her husband’s death in 1985. It was then that she began living with her son and his family, who had recently moved from Lansing to Saugatuck.

By 2003, they had moved again, settling in Clermont, Florida. Tina’s easy-going personality made it easy for her to find friends. She visited them by means of her son’s golf cart, which she would drive all over the neighborhood. She also kept in close contact with her niece, Anne Shea, who lived in Chicago. The two were very close, despite their distance from one another. During their weekly chats, Anne could tell that Tina was really enjoying herself.

The South, it seemed, had welcomed Tina back with open arms. It was the place where she had spent the first years of her life, yet now she was not burdened with the responsibilities of providing for her family. Instead, she could simply enjoy spending time with the people she loved. One of her most memorable moments was at Disney World, where the highlight was the Italian themed section of Epcot Center. Here, Tina ate lunch with her family and remembered the Italian heritage that was part of all their lives. Tina lived a very simple life, yet it was a life that everyone around her could not help but admire. Knowing her has taught her family and friends much about their own lives, and the memories they have of her will keep Tina in their hearts forever.

Tina Acino died May 21, 2004 in Clermont, Florida. Surviving are her son, Joe (Sharon) Acino of Clermont, Florida, three grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and a niece. Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 1:00 P.M. at the Saugatuck Chapel, Dykstra Funeral Homes, Inc., 520 Lake Street. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in Saugatuck. Visitation will be Thursday 11-1 P.M. at the chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association. For more information please visit www.lifestortynet.com.