Anthony Raymond Nelson

Tony passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family and love after a brave and continuous health struggle over the last three years.

Tony was a devoted, loving husband to Kathi, an incredible father to Dayna and Jaime and proud Papa to Aly, Ryan and Makenna and of course dog dad to his forever furry friend Charlie.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Kathi, His pride and joy daughters Dayna(Pierre) Amado, Jaime (Billy) Utterson. Grandchildren Aly, Ryan and Makenna and his sister Terry (Don) Back and nephew Robert.

Tony was born in Dodsland, Saskatchewan, and grew up in Saskatoon. His childhood was filled with sports, fishing, hunting and the outdoors. His love of fastball saw him in many local and provincial championships. He was most known for his pitching ability.

Tony pursued a career in the RCMP in 1971 and spent many happy years in Vernon, B.C. and Kitimat B.C. in the force. He later left the RCMP and joined the Kitimat Fire Department in 1981 where lifelong friendships and community service prevailed, before retiring to Victoria in 2004.

Some of his fondest memories were his time on Hudson Bay Mountain in Smithers, his many years volunteering with the Kitimat Marlin Swim Club, family campouts and his involvement with the Kitimat Gyro making friendships as well as playing on the baseball and old timers hockey teams. The Kitimat years ended with a love for hiking and his most favourite hike of all was the West Coast trail.

Tony will always be remembered for his love of family, his cooking skills and his welcoming of friends and family to his home. We are forever grateful for the memories, the laughter and the love he gave so generously.

In retirement Tony and Kathi embraced their new life in Victoria and continued to have a wonderful life with family, friends and neighbours. Travel became part of retirement and some of his most special times were spent with family at "the cabin" in Qualicum, the family trip to Cuba, the adventures in Australia, New Zealand and Italy. Finally there were many years of winter holidays in Bucerias with lifelong friends.

Tony's legacy will live on through his family and all who were blessed to have known and loved him

There will be no service at his request but a celebration of Tony's life will be held at a later date.

In honour of his memory we ask that you "be like Tony" and do something kind for your family, friends, neighbours or a stranger.

The family would also to thank all of the Medical team involved in Tony's care and the incredible support group of family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the BC Cancer Agency or the BC Heart and Stroke Foundation.