Anthony Walter Antonishen

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Anthony (Tony) Walter Antonishen on April 27, 2020 at Kelowna General Hospital. At the time of his passing he was surrounded with the love of his wife Ann and daughter Andrea. Tony is predeceased by his parents John and Mary Antoneshyn, sister Sylvia and brother-in law Lazar Boczylak, brothers Maynard and Lloyd. He is lovingly survived by his wife Ann (Gyore) and only child Andrea, brother Julian (Doreen), sister Verna (Sam Bulych), sisters-in law Diane and Sharon and many nieces and nephews. Tony will also be fondly remembered by many close friends across Saskatchewan and in Kelowna where he most recently enjoyed living. He touched the lives of many people he met and is remembered for his friendly, outgoing and humorous character.

Tony was born June 5, 1946 in Lestock, Saskatchewan and is the youngest of 6 children. He attended New Haven and Kelliher schools and was active in competitive sports especially baseball and track events. After his school years he worked as a road surveyor in Saskatchewan. He also worked for CN Rail and Federated Coop. In 1966, he met Ann and they were married in 1969 and settled in Regina where he started working at Molson’s Brewery. In 1973, Andrea was born. Tony was a devoted father and enjoyed coaching Andrea’s fastball and ringette teams and spending time with her on the acreage with their horses. He had several hobbies and interests, these included owning various sports cars (in his younger years), going on hunting and fishing trips, touring Saskatchewan and enjoying vacations in Arizona and Mexico with family and friends.

Tony spent most of his career working at Molson’s Brewery until his retirement in 2003. While he worked at Molson’s he also built several homes and renovated various properties. Tony was a skilled carpenter and will forever be remembered for his talent, skill, creativity and hard work as a builder and carpenter. He most recently enjoyed being on-site daily as his home was being built on Kirschner Mountain, Kelowna. During the building process he developed many close friendships with the tradesmen. He took great pride in the home and yard that he designed and helped build. Tony could always be found visiting with his neighbors, working on projects in the garage, enjoying his landscaping, and caring for our rescue dogs Sugar and Sandy. Tony loved the life that he created with his family in the Okanagan. He looked forward to the spring blooms and fruit harvest every summer. On hot days he enjoyed being in the pool overlooking the Kelowna land and cityscapes. He was a man of many talents and accomplishments. He will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, a valued neighbor, and a good friend that was always willing to lend a helping hand. Tony made the most of every day and leaves a legacy of many cherished relationships and lasting memories.

Ann and Andrea look forward to hosting two celebrations of Tony’s life in Regina and Kelowna at later dates when public health restrictions are lifted. Ann and Andrea wish to thank all our family and friends that have provided immense love, care and support during this difficult time—it is a testament to how many people knew and loved Tony. He had deep compassion for children living with physical disabilities and illnesses. Tony believed every child should have the opportunity to live joyfully and be filled with hope and optimism for the future. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations can be made in Tony’s name to the Sunshine Foundation of Canada in London Ontario, www.sunshine.ca.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com

Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299