Anthony Paul Casano

August 2, 1947 – August 13, 2025

Anthony (Tony) Paul Casano passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, at the Veterans Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado, just eleven days after celebrating his 78th birthday.

Born in Ithaca, New York, on August 2, 1947, to Paul and Grace (Schneider) Casano, Tony graduated from Ithaca High School in 1965. The following year, on September 1, 1966, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served as a ground technical radio operator in Vietnam until August 23, 1968.

On his way to Fort Dix, New Jersey, fate intervened when Tony met the love of his life, Barbara Waris, while hitching a ride with a mutual friend. They were married February 28, 1969. Together they built a beautiful life in Colorado, where they raised their family and shared countless adventures. Tony and Barb loved the outdoors—hiking, camping, biking, fishing, snowmobiling, hunting, and exploring everything nature had to offer. That passion was passed on to their two children, Steven Paul Casano of Grand Junction and Amy Lyn Casano of Billings, Montana.

Tony worked hard throughout his life in many fields. He built electrical sheet metal signs, spent years as an over-the-road hauler with Groendyke Transport, and worked in the oilfield with Halliburton. No matter the job, he brought dedication, skill, and a strong work ethic that he later passed on to his children and grandchildren.

He was also an active member of the Western Slope ATV Association and loved the camaraderie it brought. Though a quiet man, he had a dry, witty sense of humor, and when he spoke, his words carried weight, wisdom, and often a touch of profound insight.

Tony is survived by his devoted wife, Barb; his children, Steve (Kimberly Antolik) Casano and Amy (fiancé Daniel Nickerson) Casano; his grandchildren, Maryn (Andrew) Sullivan, Andrew Casano, Abigail Sullivan, and Liam Sullivan; and his great-grandchildren, Claire, Amaia, and Leo. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Jeanie Stickane.

During Tony’s courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease, Barb cared for him at home with unwavering love and loyalty, supported by the dedicated caregivers of the Veterans Association. Their help brought comfort and dignity to his final years.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Martin Mortuary in Grand Junction.

Memorial contributions may be made in Tony’s honor to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA).