Felice Troisi, 91, passed away peacefully at his home in Wilmington, Delaware on Sunday, May 18. He was surrounded by family in his final moments.

Felice was born in Paternopoli, Italy in 1933 and immigrated to the United States in 1967 with his wife, Lucia, and his three young children to provide a better life for his family. He took great pride in his work. As a skilled stonemason for over 50 years, he leaves a legacy of his work throughout the Delaware Valley that will last for generations. He volunteered his stonemason skills to construct buildings such as St. Anthony of Padua Church, Padua Academy, and St. Anthony's in the hills.

His greatest joy in life was enjoying home-cooked meals with his family. He was an avid gardener who enjoyed sharing his harvest with others. Lovingly called 'Papa', Felice was extremely humble and proud of the life he built, comparable only to the pride that his family felt to have him as their dad and grandfather. He said there was no need for an obituary, but we want others to know how truly wonderful and special he was.

Felice was preceded in death by his wife Lucia Troisi, who he married in Paternopoli, Italy on May 8, 1955. He is survived by his 3 devoted children: Dr. Ernesto Troisi, Virginia Hardin, and Maria D'Andrea. He is also survived by his 5 grandchildren: Emily, Julian, and Olivia Troisi; and Daniel and Elena Hardin; and his great-grandchild Luciana Austin. He was preceded in death by his parents Ernesto and Virginia Troisi; and his brother Pietro Troisi. He is survived by his brother, Luigi Troisi and his wife Nadia of Paternopoli, Italy; his sister Rita Corona of Froges, France; his sister Erminia Aliasi of Paternopoli, Italy; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members throughout Europe and the United States.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mass on Friday, May 23, at 12:00 p.m. ET at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 901 N. Dupont St. Wilmington. A viewing will be held at the church prior to Mass at 11 a.m. ET. Entombment will follow Mass at Cathedral Cemetery, 2400 Lancaster Ave, Wilmington, DE 19805.

In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with his humble character, Papa would want you to enjoy a meal with your family.

Cento anni / Salute / Cin Cin!