Retailer, Wholesaler, Designer Tony Petruzzelli Passes

Furniture World News Desk on 7/24/2014

Furniture wholesaler, designer and retailer Antonio (Tony) Petruzzelli, lost his fight against cancer on July 21, 2014.  Born in Barletta, Italy, on January 18, 1934, he was 80 years old.  

In 1974, Tony's retail store became the first in Florida to offer Nicoletti,  today known as NicolettiCallia.  As his business, "Innovations from Italy" expanded, he created his own pieces in partnership with Peroni & Tassini of Italy and soon operated nine retail locations, developing more than fifty wall unit designs.

By the 1990s, with his son Alexander, the business  expanded to include a wholesale division that imported lacquer bedroom furniture from Italy,  supplying national retailers such as Rooms to Go, Badcock & More, Value City, Wickes, and Finger Furniture. 

The introduction of the Euro put an end to Tony’s Italian partnerships in 2002. Like many other US companies, he looked to  China for suppliers. This led Tony to refocus on his retail business with an emphasis on modern style.

Four Florida stores continue operating under the leadership of Tony’s wife, Judith, and daughter, Jennifer, selling modern and leather furniture under the Go Modern USA brand.

Tony’s son Alex now works as an independent sales representative serving the hospitality furnishings segment of the industry.

The love that Tony had for the furniture industry lives on in his children, who continue to be involved in the business of designing and selling quality furniture. 

Family and friends said goodbye to Tony Petruzzelli at Bernardo Funeral Home on Monday, July 21, 2014. A Memorial Fund for Cancer Research has been established in his honor. Contributions can be made to:

Cure Cancer Support
320 South Flamingo Road, Suite 239
Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027
Website: http://www.curecancer.support/tony-petruzzelli
Email: tonymemorial@curecancer.support