Anthony Fonte, Sr.

Anthony Fonte, Sr., 106, of Reading, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 15, 2025 at Berks Heim Nursing and Rehabilitation in Leesport where he resided for nearly four years.

Anthony was born in Reading on March 13, 1919, a son of the late Domenica (Carabello) and Carmelo Fonte. His dear wife Ethel K. Strouse preceded him in death June 24, 2004.

Anthony and Ethel are the parents of Anthony Fonte, Jr. their only child, who was born on VE Day, May 8,1945 and survives them both.

Anthony Sr. called “Tony” attended Reading High School. A World War II veteran, he proudly and honorably served in the U.S. Navy from May 1943 to December 1945. Upon discharge, he worked first as a knitter’s helper and then as a knitter at the Berkshire Knitting Mills. With an interest in electronics and a thirst for learning, Tony took correspondence courses through DeVry University, which taught him how to repair TVs and radios.

Eventually, he was hired by Carpenter Steel (aka Carpenter Technology) in Reading where he worked until his retirement. Tony drove a front-end loader and was tasked with loading steel coils used in the construction, manufacturing, aviation and automotive industries.

In the mid-1950s, Tony decided he wanted to fly. And he did just that. Determined, he earned his private license and flew a single-engine Piper Cub often with his devoted son, who later became a pilot himself, by his side.

Upon retirement, Tony switched his energy to bike riding. He transformed his 10-speed bike to a 14-speed bike and would ride long distances. He also relished walking, gardening and cars. When he was 94, he bought a brand-new Buick Century with the adventurous spirit and hope of a teenager.

When Tony turned 100-years-old, he was interviewed by a reporter at the Reading Eagle. He was asked about his best childhood memory: “Having gatherings with my brothers and sisters.” He was asked about the happiest day of his life: “My wedding and the birth of my son.” He was asked about his reason for a long life: “Clean, healthy living.” And, finally, he was asked what advice he had for young people, and Tony said simply, “Treat others as you would like to be treated.”

In addition to his son, Tony is survived by his sister Mary Fiorillo of Sellersville, PA. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

He was predeceased by his brothers Leonard, Peter, James and Natel and sisters Marie Zelano, Josephine Perrotto and Rosalie McDonald.

The family wishes to extend sincere appreciation to the Berks Heim staff for their caring hearts and kindness shown to Tony during his stay there.

Public viewing will be held Monday, June 23, 2025 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at Milkins Trymbiski Funeral Home, 4914 Kutztown Road, Temple, PA 19560.