"My deepest condolences to the Antonelli Family. I grew up with Michael and Anthony when they lived on Sartain Street. We hung out at Francis Reed school yard everyday and played football for Columbus Square. Mikey worked at Claudio's for years prior to opening up The Avenue Cheese Shop. Michael was one of the hardest working guys I ever knew. I was honored to have known him and thoroughly enjoyed the times we spent together growing up in South Philly. "
In loving memory of
Michael N. Antonelli
May 8, 1951 - August 14, 2022
Michael N. Antonelli, on August 14, 2022, of Bellmawr. Age 71. Loving son of the late Mario and Mildred Antonelli. Beloved husband of 41 years to Joanne Antonelli (nee Markowski). Devoted father of Mario and Nicole. Dear brother of Anthony. Beloved brother-in-law of Joseph Markowski (Florence) and Stephen Markowski. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, including his best friend, Sal Arena.
"Mikey Cheese" was everyone's best friend. He loved horse racing, fishing, crabbing and spending time on his boat. Michael owned Avenue Cheese Shop in South Philly for over 30 years and worked for Cento Foods as a salesman. Michael's family meant the world to him. He was a wonderful, caring man with the biggest heart and he will be missed by everyone that knew him.
There will be a viewing on Thursday from 6pm to 9pm at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE and Friday morning from 9am to 10am at St. Joachim Parish, Annunciation BVM Church, Bellmawr.
Funeral Mass 10am at the church.
Interment New Saint Mary's Cemetery, Bellmawr.
Tributes
"JoAnne , Mario , and Nicole , So sorry to hear Mike has passed on . He always had something to say to me when he seen me outside . I will miss that , he was just a nice guy . I enjoyed watching the tribute video, especially the music . My thoughts and prayers to you guys . Jack Herrington Jr , Graniteville, S.C"
"Farewell my friend. I will always remember you as a fighter, free spirit, and a man of conviction. I will miss you. Rest in peace. See you down the road. Joe M."
"Friends for 65 years love & miss you . Stu"
"We came together as roommates at Methodist Hospital. Just like any South Philly resident, his friends and my friends blended and it held for many years since 1969. I fondly remember fun filled weekends at the Beach Haven house eating crabs and spaghetti. Also, there followed plenty of get togethers for card games and coffee where smoke fogged the room but never our banter for racetrack talk. Mike's Avenue Cheese Shop was a gem. . . invested with his heart and soul. A real people person who knew everyone, and everyone knew Mike. Friendly and animated he talked with his hands as most "paesans". Mike always tried to stay in touch and he did through the years starting from our rowhouse teens until now, as a small group of silver seniors not quite so golden but richly treasuring all the memories made as your friend. Tom Porreca "
"Lost my best man at our wedding 51 years ago, but our friendship stared at Saint Nicholas grade school well before that. We both had daughters named Nicole. He just wished her well 8/6 for her wedding. We were part of our old crew! Joey, Michael, Tommy and the cheese man Mike. To be honest, Mike kept us together. Shore house, boating, fishing were always part of life. A friend that if you didn't talk for awhile, when you did, it was like yesterday. His parents were adopted as ours. We called Mildred! Mom. It's true when you needed someone to talk too, he was there. We all share a thousand stories. He will be deeply missed. No pain and visiting with family in heaven. Our hearts go out to his family. Frank Capone"