Anthony Wilkshire

Tony is survived by his devoted wife Maureen (Mo), children Keri (husband Bill) and Gareth (wife Janine), and granddaughters Rylee, Mya and Ava.

Tony was born on September 3, 1939 in Liverpool, England. He excelled at school and in all sports, graduating as School Captain.

He began a career as an Engineer with Lucas Aerospace in Liverpool, all the while pursuing his love for the game of rugby. At 21, he signed professionally with Blackpool Borough Rugby League Club, as a right winger, a career for the next 10 years.

Tony married the love of his life, Maureen, in 1968. They both worked hard and saved every penny during their first year of marriage, to purchase their first home in Rainhill. Shortly after, they welcomed their first child Keri. Gareth followed three years later.

Tony’s love of Rugby continued long after his professional career ended, playing amateur well into his 40’s. During this time Tony became heavily involved with youth leadership in Liverpool, managing a centre for underprivileged youth.

In 1980 the family made their first big trip across the pond to visit Tony’s 3 sisters in Canada. After witnessing the opportunity, Tony and Mo set out to start a new life, emigrating in 1981. They purchased a family home in North Delta, where they lived until 2006. Tony worked hard by day in the moving industry, and spent his free time coaching soccer and working in the community as a member of the Scottsdale Lions.

After retirement and relocating to Langley, Tony started his most proud job, as Granddad, welcoming Keri and Bill’s daughter Rylee. His love was always evident, never missing hockey, softball or an opportunity to visit. After Rylee’s 12 year run in the spotlight, Gareth and Janine welcomed their first daughter Mya. Granddad and MoMo loved their Wednesday’s with Mya, having fun at the park and White Rock Beach. Three years later Ava stole Granddad’s heart with her inquisitive mind and wild imagination. Granddad’s life was truly complete.

Tony was a humble man, who didn’t desire extravagance in life. He was always generous in lending a hand or holding a door for a stranger, along with a genuinely kind smile. He was never outspoken, rather deliberate in his expression, giving his few words so much weight. He never sought the spotlight, but rather made his loved ones feel his support from the sidelines. Though large in stature, he was a gentle giant with an endearing and calming energy. He naturally instilled warmth and comfort in everyone, even animals. Tony was the true definition of a gentleman, and will be truly missed by those lucky enough to be his family and friends.

Thank you to the wonderful doctors, nurses, caregivers and staff at Cedar Hill Care Home and Langley Memorial Hospital.

The family will be hosting an open house on Saturday December 9, 2023, 1:00pm - 4:00pm at the family home in Aldergrove. Please drop by and join us for a drink, some tasties, share a story and then as Tony would say, “Tittle off.”

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Parkinson Society British Columbia.