AFA member Tony Salerno, age 34, died tragically on Tuesday, December 29, in San Jose, California.

Born Antonio Amadeus Salerno on July 11, 1986 in Torrance, California, Tony lived his entire life in the central part of the state. He worked as a Bail Recovery Agent – a “bounty hunter” – and took pride in the challenges and dangers of that profession.

AFA members remember him as the muscular, intense man who was always a top contender in the “Viking Games” at Odinshof. He was an inspiration to all of us who valued strength and that virtue Hemingway called “grace under pressure.” But Tony was more than that; sitting in conversation with him at Hof events revealed an intelligent and informed man who loved his Gods, his Folk, and his family.

Tony was a health and strength enthusiast long before he came to the AFA; his family ran the Prunedale Gym and Health Club when he was young and his hobbies included archery, hockey and participating in the Highland Games strongman competitions.

Tony’s striving for improvement did not stop with athletics: A note found in his wallet after his death was a list of what appear to be reminders to himself, shown here as he wrote them –

– Constant Correct Conduct

– Remember what you have

– Grateful for the joys in my life

– Don’t frett

– This too shall pass

– Love will prevail

He is survived by his mother and father Desiree and Guy Salerno, and his 10-year old son Jaxon Odysseus Salerno.

Friends of Tony may call Jennifer Riddle at (831) 595-2314 to make contributions in his memory, to fund a Celebration of Life at a later date. Condolences may be sent to his son at13008 Jade Circle, Salinas CA 93906.

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