TRUMBULL, Conn. -- Paul N. D'Elia Jr., 80, who for many years was
the owner and general manager of The D'Elia Agency, a chain of four
retail travel agencies here and in Bridgeport, died April 20 at the
Lord Chamberlain Nursing Home in Stratford.
The son of the late Paul P. and Teresa C. D'Elia, Paul N. D'Elia
Jr. perpetuated a legacy in the travel industry that is now in its
fourth generation. His grandfather, Frank D'Elia, started a travel
business in Bridgeport in 1902.
Paul N. D'Elia Jr. was retired at the time of his death. Decades
ago, his travel agency chain, which did leisure and corporate
business, launched a commercial division that serviced the
corporate travel needs of General Electric, Harvey Hubbel, and
Producto Machines, among others.
He wrote feature articles recounting his worldwide travels for
the Bridgeport Sunday Post. His family said he also wrote
occasionally for Travel Weekly.
He was often referred to in the local press as "Bridgeport's
Marco Polo" because of his extensive global travels.
He was a charter member of the Institute of Certified Travel
Agents, a Certified Travel Counselor and had been a member of
Giants.
Paul N. D'Elia Jr. earned his Bachelor of Arts from the
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and his M.A. from
Columbia University's Teacher's College.
Paul N. D'Elia Jr. served his country in the United States Navy
and was a member of Post 141 of the American Legion in
Trumbull.
He is survived by his wife and business partner Rita Ertle; his
sons, Paul C. D'Elia III of Richmond Va., Daniel R. D'Elia of
Wallingford; and a daughter, Valarie D'Elia of New York City. He is
also survived by three brothers, Dr. Frank G. D'Elia of Mystic,
Ronald J. D'Elia of Southbury and Edward W. D'Elia of Trumbull.
Contributions in Paul N. D'Elia Jr.'s memory can be made to the
Bridgeport Lions Club Speak Up Contest, which he founded. Contact
the Redgate-Hennessy Funeral Home, Main Street and Gorham Place,
Trumbull, for more information on making contributions.