The Clarence Valley community gathered at the Riverside Church in South Grafton on Tuesday, June 8 to pay their respects and farewell a man many described as kind and caring with a heart of gold.
Tributes flowed as Lucio Saverio Felice, the founder of popular local business Farmer Lou’s, was fondly remembered as a true gentleman who was deeply devoted to his loved ones and committed to the family business. Customers were always greeted by his warm smile and community spirit, and everyone at Farmer Lou’s was made to feel welcome.
The 75-year-old passed away on May 31, after a long battle with cancer. The sad news of his passing was shared on the Farmer Lou’s Facebook page last week by his loving family.
“In our eyes, he was and always will be, the greatest man that ever lived,” the post read.
“He had a heart of gold and always put all before himself.
“We are so honored and grateful to have been part of his life, but so so sad to have lost this beautiful man named Lucio Saverio Felice xxo.
“We love you Dad, with Maria at last, and so so sorry for your loss Mum xxo.”
In response, hundreds of people posted heartfelt messages of love and support as they offered their deepest sympathies. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan also paid tribute to the man everyone knew as Farmer Lou in Parliament last week. “Whether it was your first time or your 1000th time you walked into the store, you were always greeted with Lou’s big smile and wonderful personality,” he said.
“He was one of Grafton’s best known and loved faces. “Lou was a true gentleman and a wonderful human being and will be missed greatly by our community. “May he rest in peace.”
South Grafton resident and regular Farmer Lou’s customer Rosie Harold said the Clarence Valley has lost a wonderful man with a generous heart and soul.
“I will remember him as a kind and considerate man who always made my shopping experiences so enjoyable,” she said sadly. “Once, I went into Framer Lou’s to buy some pears, and he came over to see if I had chosen the biggest and the best ones. “He smiled at me and said he was pleased I had chosen well, and I will always remember that. “He was so wonderful to all of his customers. “He will be sadly missed by a lot of people and heaven has welcomed another angel.”
The Clarence Valley Independent would like to extend our sincere condolences to the Felice family and Farmer Lou’s family during this sad time.