Obituary written by John McFadden, but not published until now. Published with his permission.
Antonia Stampfel, age 78, died in Sarasota, FL, on 9/14/17. A native of NYC, she was a prolific writer of songs, short stories and poems. She was a significant contributor to the emerging Greenwich Village folk movement in the early 1960s.

She introduced Peter Stampfel to Steven Weber, who went on to form the Holy Modal Rounders, a band that pioneered what was later termed the “freak folk” movement. Antonia wrote and co-wrote many of their songs, including “If You Want to be a Bird,” which was featured in the soundtrack of the film “Easy Rider”.

She is survived by her daughter, Ronni Troiano, 2 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. A Musical Memorial celebrating her work will be held at the Jalopy Theater, Brooklyn, N.Y. on Sunday, 11/5/17 from 8:00pm-Midnight.

Because of her lifelong interest in exotic bird rescue, memorial contributions can be made in her name to: Lucky Parrot Sanctuary, P.O. Box 110334, Naples, FL 34108-0106.