Anthony Vincent Paolucci

Anthony Vincent Paolucci was born on June 28, 1940 in Kansas City, Kansas, and entered into his eternal reward on July 9, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Tony was born the second son of Nicholas Paolucci (Frosolone, Italy) and Minnie LaPenta Paolucci (Bloomfield, CT). He began his education in a one-room school house, Bellevue School, moving to St. Benedict’s grade school, later attending Maur Hill School, Benedictine College and Emporia State University.

Tony served in the United States Air Force from 1962 – 1966. During his service he was stationed in Germany at Hahn Air Base and later at Hamilton Air Base in California. While in Germany, Tony played football for the Hahn “Hawks” as part of the USAFE Continental League. Tony was a proud member of the 78th Air Police Squadron.

Upon the conclusion of his military service, Tony remained in the San Francisco Bay Area where he met the love of his life, Patricia (Golding), at a Catholic Alumni event in Yosemite National Park in 1977. Career advancement prompted a transfer to Seattle where Tony built a robust business in insurance investigation. Throughout the years, he received many awards and accolades for his outstanding sales performance.

Tony’s greatest reward in life was his family, and their happiness and security was his greatest purpose. A faith-filled person throughout his entire life, Tony led by example. Alway kind and generous to all, he had a warmth and ease that drew others to him; it didn’t matter if you had just met him or if you had known him for years. He was the proudest father, whether he was attending piano recitals, an Irish step-dancing feis, speech tournaments, soccer matches, baseball or basketball games. He alway held his children to a high standard while remaining their biggest fan.

Tony and Patricia enjoyed sharing the gift of hospitality with others. Whether it was a simple meal with friends, or an Italian (or Irish!) dinner for the school auction, Tony loved to gather people around the table.

Deeply committed to his faith, Tony was always involved in parish life. While a member of St. Philomena parish in Des Moines, WA, Tony assisted with adult education, taught CCD classes to three-year-olds, and served as President of the Parish Council. In all his actions, Tony built a legacy of faith, family, love, and commitment.

Tony and Patricia started a new chapter in their lives, moving to Phoenix, AZ in 2021. In the short span of two years they established themselves at St. Rose Philippine Duchesne parish, meeting many wonderful people. Tony made friends wherever he went as he continued to work out his new routine. Although he loved the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, after 43 years in Seattle, Tony loved waking up to sunshine every day in Phoenix.

Many will remember Tony for always being ready with a smile or a warm hug, the twinkle in his eye, a quick wink, or his distinctive whistle. While a light has gone out in our earthly world, we know that his eternal light will shine down upon us always.

Tony was preceded in death by his mother, Minnie LaPenta Paolucci, father, Nicholas Mario Paolucci, half-sisters Rose Paolucci Ryan and Theresa Paolucci Beagle, uncles John and Felix Paolucci, and aunt, Mary Paolucci Begley.

Tony is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Patricia Golding Paolucci, daughter, Regina Paolucci and son, Mario Paolucci. He is also survived by brothers Dominic (Marilyn) Paolucci of Denver, CO and Joe (Carole) Paolucci of Atchison, KS, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held in Phoenix, AZ and all are welcome:

Visitation and Rosary will be held at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, on Friday, July 28th from 5-7 pm.

Funeral Mass will be held at St. Rose Philippine Duchesne in Anthem, 2825 W. Rose Canyon Circle, on Saturday, July 29th at 10 am. Reception to follow.

The funeral mass may also be viewed here:

https://www.youtube.com/live/XOOijwD3-yw?feature=share

The burial will be held at Holy Redeemer Catholic Cemetery, 23015 Cave Creek Road, on Monday, July 31st at 9 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the church building fund at St. Rose Philippine Duchesne in Anthem, AZ. Click here to donate:

https://www.wesharegiving.org/App/Form/8faf5c84-1704-4f2f-ba3b-55ed6e700003

Memorial Mass will be in Seattle, WA on Friday, October 27, 2023 at 11 AM. Celebrant: Fr. Martin Bourke. Location: St. Francis of Assisi Church, 15236 21st Avenue, SW, Burien, WA 98198. Reception to follow in the parish hall.