Williamstown’s Antonio Napoli celebrated his 100th birthday on Sunday, September 28 and according to granddaughter, Marisa Te, was a little taken aback by the scale of the party.
“He was a little bit overwhelmed because he didn’t realise it was a big function with all his family and friends,” she said.
When you’ve got four children, 12 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, plus many friends made during more than six decades running a popular fruit shop, any party is going to be big.
According to Ms Te, her grandfather soon grew into the celebrations.
“When he gave his speech he said ‘I’m just letting you know that I’m wrapping my arms around all of you with a big hug,” she said, adding that Mr Napoli also thanked the King Charles, the premier and the various other dignitaries who wrote to congratulate him.
“He was really proud of all the certificates he got.”
Born in Italy, Mr Napoli arrived in Australia as a 27 year old in 1951, with his wife Maria and two children joining later.
A decade on he opened the first of three fruit shops on Ferguson Street in Williamstown.
The last of the three, Napoli’s Quality Market, was only sold by his son’s last year, with Mr Napoli still popping in to visit and have coffee right until the end.
He still lives in his own home on Douglas Parade and according to Ms Te, estimates he’s got at least another decade in him yet.
“I don’t think he’s going anywhere soon,” she said.
