Obituary of Anthony J. Felice Jr.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Anthony “Tony” J. Felice, Jr., cherished husband, father, stepfather, Navy veteran, and Penn State supporter. Tony departed this world on November 19, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a life well-lived.

Born on December 12, 1941, in Bellefonte, PA to Anthony J. and Margaret A. Felice (nee Conde), Tony was a native of State College, Pennsylvania, and a devoted alumnus of Penn State University.  He attended college on a Naval ROTC scholarship, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, and was a member of the Chi Phi fraternity, where he formed strong, enduring bonds. Tony's commitment to his alma mater was unwavering, and he remained a steadfast supporter of all things Penn State, especially his beloved Nittany Lions football team, throughout his life.

Following his Naval service, Tony settled in Connecticut, where he began what was to be a life-long career in sales as an independent manufacturer’s representative.  He worked for Connors Sales Company from 1972 to 1995 and, in 1995, formed his own business, Synergy Sales, Ltd., which he successfully ran for over 20 years. 

A requisite trait for any good salesperson, Tony could strike up a conversation with anyone and was a stranger to none.  He had an encyclopedic memory for jokes, was exceptional at telling them and found immense joy in making people laugh or, as was often the case, bringing a good-natured grimace to their faces. 

Tony had a natural affinity for music.  From a young age, he played the clarinet, piano and accordion and was a gifted entertainer.  He particularly loved listening to symphony, jazz and opera, and was always eager to share a piece that moved him with those he loved.

An avid golfer, Tony could be found on the golf course for the greater part of his adult life, where he enjoyed the challenge of the game and camaraderie of fellow golfers.  He also enjoyed biking, photography, traveling and spending time with his succession of miniature poodles, Brandy, Murphy, Nell and Dora. 

Tony was an amazing cook and loved to whip up a big bowl of his famous spaghetti and meatballs.  He had a passion for good food and, taking after his Italian mother and father, took great pleasure in feeding his friends and family.  He was also master at serving up made-to-order breakfasts for guests of his Bed & Breakfasts, the Maple Hill Farm and later the Elias Child House.

In retirement, Tony split his time between his hometown of State College, PA and Naples, FL. Whether attending fall football games or enjoying a round of golf at the Stonebridge Country Club, Tony found happiness in both places he called home.

In 1980, Tony began a journey of love and partnership with MaryBeth Gorke-Felice. They blended their families, and for 43 years, shared a life filled with laughter, joy, mutual respect and unwavering support for each other.  

In addition to MaryBeth, Tony is survived by his children: Meg Felice and her husband Jim Wucherpfennig of West Hartford, CT; Mark Felice of Georgetown, TX; Scott Gorke and his wife Susan Rheaume of Rockport, MA; Jeff Gorke and his wife Pam Gorke of Suwanee, GA; Amy Ayer and her husband Tom Ayer of Eastford, CT, and his grandchildren: Zachary Felice, Samuel Felice, Maddie Gorke, Haley Gorke, Joren Ayer and Braden Ayer.  He is also survived by his two brothers and sisters-in-law, Joe and Mitzi Felice of Albuquerque, NM, and Dave and Wendy Felice of State College, PA, his nieces: Angie Buckner; Michelle Steele; Emily Felice and Ashley Felice; his brother and sister-in-law, Rich and Sue Frohlich, and many dear friends. 

The family would like to thank the dedicated staff at Harmony of State College, where Tony lived and was well cared-for over the last year of his life.

As we bid farewell to Tony Felice, let us celebrate the remarkable life he led, the love he shared, and the laughter he gifted us. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on Friday, January 12, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College, PA.  A memorial service to celebrate Tony’s life will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 11:00 am at Koch Funeral Home.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tony’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association Alzheimer's Association | Donate to Fight Alzheimer's Disease or the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Donate to Dana-Farber and help fight cancer | Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (jimmyfund.org)

Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home. Online condolences may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or on their Facebook site.