Anthony John Verbich

The world lost a sweet, kind, gentle, and creative soul on August 2, 2016, with the passing of Anthony John Verbich, 60, from respiratory failure. Talkative and vivacious, Tony was a strong man who exuded kindness and found great joy in entertaining and making the people around him happy. A celebration of his life includes the many things he was to the many people he touched over the years.

A local character: Tony was born on October 3, 1955, at Lower Bucks County Hospital. He was a Fairless Hills boy through and through. From school boy pranks at Saint Frances Cabrini, to trapping and selling muskrat pelts, to weekend neighborhood rock concerts and more, everyone knew "that youngest Verbich boy."

An attentive son: Tony was the third child born to Agnes and George Verbich, who had the pleasure (and sometimes surprise) of raising a budding artisan. Often they would come home to a new paint color in the dining room or a rearranged living room. Tony never ceased to amaze them with his creativity, and he never failed to be ever-present in their lives even into his adulthood.

A loving partner: Tony is survived by Ashley Ann Bird… or "Pies" as he called her. She was the love of his life and he never missed an opportunity to accommodate, praise, spoil, and share every little moment with her. After their first date, he knew this was it and they were never apart for the next 14 years. He taught her drum, amazed her with his culinary skills, supported her throughout her expanding career, and was her constant companion and soulmate.

An active father: Tony lived for his boys, Craig Anthony, Brett Michael, and Ross Andrew. He loved being a father and thrived on planning, organizing, and facilitating a busy and enriched childhood… with trips to the mountains, camping, fishing, hunting, and more. He was a fixture at every sports and music event. Through thick and thin, he was very proud of his boys and their accomplishments throughout their youths and into their adult years.

The baby brother: Tony was the quintessential baby in the family… spoiled, sassy, and wildly independent. His sister Barbara Wilson and brother Tim Verbich put up with endless pranks and eccentricities. They were always waiting in line for the bathroom… and to see what hijinks he was cooking up next.

A giving friend: Tony was never happier than when he was lending a helping hand. He always put others first. Even when he was in the hospital, he was perpetually planning parties and get-togethers for every one of his acquaintance. An offer of pizza, wings, or a sublime relish tray by the pool was always in the offing.

A successful entrepreneur: After working in steel, the railroad and even a diaper factory, Tony's ambition to be a business owner lead him into a very successful career as a contract painter. From historic properties to private residences throughout Bucks County and beyond, Tony was known as an artisan beyond compare.

A rhythm master: Tony's drumming career started at 6 with a Herr's potato chip bucket and wooden spoons. His parents, accepting that this was not a passing fancy, took pity and finally bought him his first of many trap kits… and the pictures on his mother's walls were never straight again. Soon, he graduated to the garage and played to standing room only neighborhood gigs. This was the inception of Rockin' Fuel, which was to become the top grossing band down the shore for several years running in the '70s. He passed this talent on to his oldest son and inspired countless neighborhood children over the years.

An enthusiastic outdoorsman: Tony loved being outside, whether in his own backyard or out in the Pocono wilderness. He hunted, fished, camped, hiked, explored, and enjoyed the great outdoors with a singular zeal. It was never too hot, too cold, or too wet to be outside.

Ashley and Tony's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his many friends and the medical team members at Thomas Jefferson University who have given their unwavering support and love. Please join in remembering Tony with a Celebration of Life Ceremony at 11:00 am Saturday, August 6, 2016 at James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc., 2200 Trenton Road, Levittown, PA 19056 The family will receive friends starting at 10:00 am until time of service.

In lieu of flowers and to honor the excellent medical care and infinite indulgence provided by his doctors and nurses, please make donations to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Please make checks payable to Jefferson and mail to: Office of Institutional Advancement, 125 S. Ninth Street, Suite 600, Philadelphia, PA 19107, or donate by using an online form on the Jefferson web site.