Tony A. Gentilozzi

57, passed away June 12, at Sparrow Hospital. His son Vince lovingly expressed these words: “We lost the greatest man we will ever know. He lost his battle with cancer Friday evening; he had a quiet peaceful transition surrounded by his loved ones.”

He leaves his wife of 32 years, Anella S. (Chirico); his son, Vincent, and his daughter, Cecilia; his mother, Jean Gentilozzi; brother, Paul (Debbie) Gentilozzi; sister, Patty (Bill) Motz; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Albert E. Gentilozzi.

Born in Detroit, MI, Tony was a lifelong resident of Lansing, graduating from Lansing Catholic Central in 1976. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning from Michigan State University in 1981. After graduation, Tony joined the family firm Gentilozzi Real Estate and Management becoming a Vice President.  During his 34 year tenure he was a force in changing Lansing’s skyline.  Most notably, Tony was instrumental in the development of The Victor Building, The Grand Tower, One Michigan Avenue building and The Michigan Theatre. He was a licensed Real Estate Broker and served on several committees and commissions.

Tony was a model of strength and compassion; a loving father, husband, brother and son who carried himself with intelligence and grace; qualities which drew people to him. As an avid golfer, Tony was considered by his friends, family and golf partners to be “a serious competitor with exceptional golfing ability.” His real passion was hunting; with the heart of an explorer he traveled each year to Montana, Alaska or Canada to hunt big game. Tony also believed strongly in traditional family values. He cherished hosting family gatherings and teaching the kids to fish at their cottage near Portage Lake. He was happiest in the woods and on the water, and most content relaxing with his wife and children on the lake watching the sun set.

 A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 18, 2015, at St. Mary’s Cathedral, 219 Seymour Ave., Lansing. The Rev. Fr. Gordon Reigle as celebrant. Tony’s family will receive friends and business associates at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday – Rosary at 7:00 p.m . In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church in Williamston, the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, or charity of choice, in memory of Tony Gentilozzi.