Both Tony and I entered Bryant College (Now University) in
September 1962. ( Only through his obit did I learn that we were born only 2 weeks apart). Freshman year I lived in a small dorm slightly off campus. In retrospect, I was immature and got into trouble the only time that I drank that year; so next year they transferred me to the newest dorm to room with Tony who was an RA. I immediately understood that he was told to keep an eye on me; but he never showed me anything but courtesy and friendship. And I never got into trouble again. We got along great as did Tony with everyone.
Later that year Tony and I pledged different fraternities so I moved in with a frat brother right across the hall from Tony. He always remained happy, friendly, and willing to share time for a good story or a good joke.
Upon graduation we lost contact for years until I heard that he was in the employee benefits business.....as was I. So sometime in the 1980's I got his phone number and called him in Florida from Massachusetts and we talked and caught up for the many years apart. Despite some bad breaks, he was still the happy guy that I knew. We kept in touch by phone for a few years, then lost contact again, until one day in 2014. My wife and I had moved to The Villages and I was on a practice green getting ready for a round of golf, when one of my golf buddies showed up and said: Hey!, Joe Tomaselli and was shaking my hand when a voice 3 feet from me said: Hey! I knew a Joe Tomaselli. I turned around and there was Tony!!!!! I couldn't believe it!!! Only 3 feet away and we would never have known it if my name hadn't been called out. So, then my wife and I hosted Tony to a great home cooked meal and Tony and I stayed in touch daily, mostly by email as he moved out of The Villages. He was having some bad personal luck; but never complained. I knew that he loved his dog as he spoke of her often.
I will miss his positive attitude, his easy going ways, laughter, and great sense of humor. Tony was the kind of rare person that everyone liked. Rest in peace Tony!!