Anthony R. Cirelli

ANTHONY RAYMOND CIRELLI "Tony", age 80, US Navy Veteran, passed away peacefully at his home on March 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Devoted husband to Rose (nee Polo). Loving father to Carla Cirelli Mueller (Dennis), Anthony M. Cirelli (Michelle), and Dante Cirelli. Beloved grandfather to Madeline, Lucio, Gianna and Nina. Dear brother to Dante Cirelli (Mary) and Charlie Cirelli (the late Denise).
Anthony was born in the Lawncrest section of Philadelphia to the late Dante and Mary A. Cirelli (nee Villane). Anthony attended St. Williams Parish Grade School followed by Cardinal Dougherty High School. He served in the United States Navy from 1961 to 1964. He was stationed at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He was employed by the US Postal Service, a job he truly enjoyed. Upon retirement, Anthony worked at Estee Lauder for twenty-two years and made many friends while there.
He was an avid gardener and he was known for his famous tomatoes and basil. He loved to be among friends & family enjoying a nice Italian meal – braciole was his favorite along with a "Grey Goose" Martini. He loved life and found joy in the small things. He loved coaching and playing baseball with his sons. His love of the New York Yankees was legendary. The Yankees just lost their biggest and most loyal fan. He also had a passion for the Broad Street Bullies - aka the Philadelphia Flyers - and could name the entire 1974/1975 lineup and has every piece of memorabilia around those wins. His other love was everything Navy – including an intense love of Naval aviation and airshows. After the release of the movie Top Gun, Anthony could recite each line – and did so on many occasions. His favorite line, "Tower, this is Ghost Rider requesting a flyby. Negative, Ghost Rider the pattern is full."
Among all things the one thing that was most important to Anthony was his family. He was so proud of his family and loved to talk and share their life with his friends and those around him. Anthony found joy in the simple things – fresh garden tomatoes, a good meal and listening to music. Comfort was found in his love for his Bride, Rose, and his faith. He had a wonderful sense of humor up to the end. He was proud to be a veteran and loved to talk and hear about his grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Thursday, March 14, 2024, from 9:15AM until 11:15AM at Louis A. DiGiacomo Funeral Home, Inc., 1055 Southampton Road, Philadelphia, PA 19116, followed by his Funeral Mass at 12:00PM at St. Christopher Church, 13301 Proctor Road, Philadelphia, PA 19116. Interment Private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Veteran's Administration at https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/.
Share memories at www.DiGiacomoFuneralHome.com.