Anthony J. Girifalco
1954–2025
Executive Vice President, DVIRC
It is with great sorrow that we share the passing of Anthony “Tony” Girifalco, DVIRC’s Executive Vice President, a steadfast leader, and a cherished friend to so many in our organization and community.
Tony was with DVIRC from the very beginning. For more than 35 years, he played a vital role in shaping the company’s mission and values. He built enduring partnerships and guided the organization’s growth with humility and intellect. Tony brought wisdom, clarity, and care to every conversation, proposal, and plan.
Throughout his distinguished career, Tony helped secure millions in state and federal funding to support economic development across Southeastern Pennsylvania. He was a nationally recognized leader in workforce development and a driving force behind programs like the Applied Engineering Technology education initiative, which created new career pathways in advanced manufacturing. His influence extended far beyond DVIRC—reaching into government, education, and industry, where he earned trust and admiration in equal measure.
Tony held degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Georgetown University, and he brought a lifelong love of language, learning, and service to everything he did. His impact can be seen not only in the programs he helped create but in the people he inspired who were fortunate enough to work beside him and learn from his example.
Outside the office, Tony was a man of great warmth and depth. He valued family above all and carried profound pride for his children and granddaughter. He appreciated good food, good wine, and good conversation. He had a laugh that brought ease to a room, and a sense of humor that snuck up on you in the best way.
Tony was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at DVIRC’s 2024 Manufacturing Excellence Awards, a reflection of the indelible mark he left on this region and our industry. But Tony was so much more than his work. He was a man of unwavering faith, immense kindness, quiet wisdom, and great depth.
We will deeply miss Tony’s presence, his perspective, and the grace with which he moved through the world. His legacy lives on in those he inspired and the mission we carry forward.
Our hearts are with Tony’s family and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.