Joseph Anthony "Tony" Toole moved onto his next venture Aug. 9, 2012, after a life highlighted by a wealth of friendships and bold entrepreneurship.

Born in Scranton to John and Florence (Tigue) Toole, he was raised in Allentown and graduated from Allentown Central Catholic in 1967.

An athletic youth, he stood 5 feet 9 inches tall but could dunk a basketball.

He earned a degree in finance at the University of Miami in 1971 and began a successful career with Fairmont Real Estate, later founding his own firm, Hallmark Real Estate.

His interest in business ventures (Toole-ism: "Remember what Tony is spelled backwards: Y NOT.") led to the 1990 creation of O'Toole's, a billiard-themed bistro, which became the region's most popular nightspot.

He later returned to real estate development.

His survivors include a devoted and beloved daughter, Erin Elizabeth Toole of Bethlehem; sister Jacqueline Griggs of Blandon, Fla., and scores of friends with whom he generously shared his Irish wit, worldly resources and unique perspectives on this existence (Toole-ism: "Life is not a spectator sport.").

His favorite song was "Paint It, Black" by the Rolling Stones.

A celebration of his life will take place 7-9 p.m. Aug. 16 at The Paddock, Walbert Avenue at Columbia Street, South Whitehall.

All are invited to this last call in the life of one of the more interesting and endearing individuals in Allentown history: Tony Toole.

Arrangements were made by Gilbert Funeral Home, Whitehall.