Standardbred horseman Angelo Mario LaBella, 95, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2020.
LaBella was born in Alatri, Italy, and lived most of his life in Syracuse, N.Y., until recently when he moved to Milton, Ga.
He was a World War II veteran, proudly serving from 1943-45 in Battery 252nd Field Artillery Battalion in Normandy, northern France, Belgium and central Europe. He received a European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, a Good Conduct Medal and a New York State Medal for Merit.
LaBella was a member of the USTA and a trainer for 50 years (he did not officially retire until he was 90 years old). At the young age of 80, he had one of his greatest successes, with Hands To Yourself, who had more than $150,000 in winnings under LaBella's training, and finished third in the New York Sire Stakes final in 2007.
LaBella was loved by everyone in the horse business, and will especially be missed by everyone at Vernon Downs and the Syracuse Mile. LaBella was a kind, humble and gentle soul who loved life, his family and friends, horses, gardening, and a good Bloody Mary.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Americo and Joseph; and his sister, Fatima Mirra. He was loved and adored by his nieces and nephews and is survived by his nieces, Dr. Lori Mosca, Diane Maloney, Mary Badger, Christine Sherwood and Pauline Shanley; and his nephews, Joseph A., Dr. John and Mario Mirra. He also enjoyed spending time with his 12 great- and his three great-great nieces and nephews.
A private funeral service with a military salute and taps is planned for June 27 at Assumption Cemetery in Syracuse. LaBella will be laid to rest next to his brothers, Joseph, who served in the Army, and Americo, who was killed in action during the Korean War.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Angelo LaBella.
(USTA)