Tony Voce Obituary

Tony Voce, an influential figure in the world of ice hockey and the first Philadelphia native to play for the Philadelphia Flyers organization, passed away on July 8, 2024. Born on October 30, 1980, Voce’s remarkable journey through the sport left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of witnessing his career.

Playing Career

Tony Voce’s passion for hockey was evident early in his life, leading him to play college hockey at Boston College. During his four years with the Eagles, Voce showcased his exceptional skills, recording 90 goals and 77 assists, along with 207 penalty minutes. His senior year was particularly noteworthy, as he finished second in the nation in goals in the NCAA. Voce’s outstanding performance earned him the Norman F. Bailey Award twice as the team’s MVP, first as a sophomore and then as a senior. Additionally, he was named to the All-Hockey East First Team and was an AHCA First Team All-American.

Voce’s professional career began when he was signed as an undrafted free agent by his hometown team, the Philadelphia Flyers. Although he did not play for the Flyers in the NHL, he made a significant impact with their minor league affiliate, the Philadelphia Phantoms. Voce was an integral part of the 2004-05 Calder Cup-winning Phantoms team, becoming one of the team’s top goal-scorers with a total of 50 goals over two years. His stellar performance with the Phantoms earned him a loan to the Grand Rapids Griffins.

In 2007, Voce ventured overseas to further his career, signing with Ilves of the SM-liiga. Despite a brief stint of just five games, Voce quickly found a new home with Grizzlys Wolfsburg of the German Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL). His journey continued as he signed with the DEL’s Straubing Tigers in March 2008 and later transferred to EC Graz 99ers of the Erste Bank Hockey League in Austria. However, his time in Austria was short-lived, and he was released after two weeks with the team.

Legacy and Impact

Tony Voce’s career, marked by his tenacity and skill on the ice, inspired many aspiring hockey players, especially those from Philadelphia. As the first native Philadelphian to play for the Flyers organization, Voce paved the way for future generations, showing that local talent could reach professional heights. His dedication to the sport and his ability to overcome challenges made him a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.

Off the ice, Voce was known for his humility and sportsmanship. He carried himself with grace and was always willing to mentor young players, sharing his knowledge and experiences to help them grow in their careers. His contributions to the sport extended beyond his playing days, as he remained actively involved in the hockey community, supporting various initiatives to promote and develop the game.