Anthony Joseph Podlecki

Born in Buffalo NY, January 25 1936, Anthony (Tony) Podlecki found his professional calling at a young age. His love of Ancient Greek History and Literature began when he was just 13 years old, and would captivate his life’s work for the next 75 years. Tony’s dedication to his studies led him from Canisius High School, to the College of the Holy Cross, to Oxford as a Fulbright Scholar and finally to the University of Toronto where he would meet the other love of his life: his wife Jenny.

Tony and Jenny moved to Chicago Illinois, where Tony launched his academic career as a professor at Northwestern University. It was also in Chicago that the couple adopted the first of their three children from The Cradle, returning twice more to complete the family of five – “The Fab Five”.

As Tony’s career progressed, he went on to head the Classics departments at Penn State and UBC, where his teaching and mentorship left a lasting impression on countless students, many of whom he stayed in touch with, creating a lifetime of mentorship, leadership, learning, and discourse, which he cherished.

In addition to teaching, “Podders” (as he was affectionately dubbed by his UBC’s Arts One class) became a frequently sought-after resource on Ancient Greek History and Literature, authoring an extensive collection of research, articles, books, translations, and even earning himself a film credit.

Tony loved travelling, attending all manner of arts and cultural events and singing in choirs, including Vancouver’s Bach Choir. He was always ready for one more adventure.

Predeceased by his daughter Antonia Michelle, Tony died Monday July 31st 2023.

He will be missed by all who knew him, especially his wife, Jennifer, and family including: Chris, Julia & Brian, Kevin, Patrick, Matthew, Kali and Kieran.