Anthony F. Fittipoldi

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Anthony F. Fittipoldi on September 20, 2026, in Washington Township. He was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, teacher and mentor whose memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and the many young people whose lives he touched.

Anthony’s life was a remarkable story of perseverance, hard work, and devotion to family. He grew up in Philadelphia during the difficult years of the Depression and lost his father when he was just four years old. His mother, an Italian immigrant and seamstress, raised the family with the help of Anthony’s older brother, Nicholas, who became an important father figure in his life. From a young age, Anthony worked to help support his family, including shining shoes and selling produce throughout the neighborhoods of Philadelphia.

As a young man, Anthony learned the upholstery trade and became a skilled craftsman. He enlisted in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in 1948, ultimately attaining the rank of Sergeant. During his service he was activated and spent time in Germany and Austria, and he received an honorable discharge in 1951.

After returning home, Anthony resumed his work in upholstery and was given an opportunity to teach the trade to returning veterans. What began as an extension of his craftsmanship became his life’s profession. He continued his education by attending the University of Pennsylvania at night, obtaining the credentials necessary to continue teaching in the Philadelphia public school system.

Anthony went on to spend his career teaching upholstery to young people in Philadelphia’s inner-city schools. He was far more than an instructor. He became a mentor and advocate for his students, using his relationships with local businesses and manufacturers to help many of them find jobs, learn a trade, and build productive lives.

His dedication was formally recognized on June 12, 1963, when the School District of Philadelphia presented him with the President’s Award, honoring his “pioneering spirit, professional skill and appeal to young minds and hearts,” as well as his commitment to education and his students.

Anthony’s greatest devotion, however, was to his family. He met his beloved wife, Lorraine (née Araneo), in the Pocono Mountains, and the two married only three months later. Their marriage would span nearly 70 years. Together they raised their family and created a lifetime of memories.

During his years as a teacher, Anthony made the most of summers with his family. Although money was often limited, the family traveled extensively, camping in state and national parks and exploring the country together. A gifted craftsman in all aspects of his life, Anthony even built a pop-up camping trailer that the family used for many years. Later, he and Lorraine enjoyed traveling with their travel trailer to places they loved, including Cape Cod, the Poconos, Rehoboth Beach, the Carolinas and Florida.

In later years, Anthony and Lorraine spent their winters near Florida’s Gulf Coast, where they developed a close circle of friends and enjoyed an active social life. Their travels also took them on cruises and eventually to Europe, including Italy, connecting Anthony with the country from which his family had come.

Anthony leaves behind his devoted wife, Lorraine, who stood by his side throughout life’s journey. Together they created a loving family, blessed with children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to their lives.

He is survived by his daughter Lisa Fittipaldi and her wife Lori Zimmaro; his son Frank Fittipoldi; and the family of his late daughter Carol Newman, including her husband Frank. Anthony was a proud grandfather to Kara, Anthony (Emily), Kathleen, Kelsey (Russell), Francesca, Luciano and Andre. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren Giovanni, Kaleb, Nora, Hallie and Francis “Frankie.” He is also survived by dear nieces and nephews.

In addition to his immediate family, Anthony is remembered fondly by his friends and extended family. He was predeceased by his siblings Nicholas and Genevieve Fittipaldi, who were dear to him.

Anthony will be remembered as a fine craftsman, dedicated educator and mentor, devoted husband and family man, and a compassionate person who spent much of his life helping others find their way. From humble beginnings in Philadelphia to a long career devoted to educating young people, his was a life defined by perseverance, generosity and service to others. His influence lives on in his family and in the generations of students whose lives he helped shape.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church, 176 Stagecoach Road, Washington Township. A Christian Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Anthony’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Boys Town.