Anthony “Tony” Kres, 72 of Tampa FL - devoted husband, father, grandfather and veteran passed away on Sept 14th 2022 with loved ones by his side. Tony was born on Aug 13th 1950 in Philadelphia PA to Casey & Sara Kres (Brunetto). He was raised in South Philly with his sisters & extended family and was very proud of his roots there. After graduating from South Philadelphia High School in 1968 he joined the Air Force and served our country for 25 years.
His military service took him all over the world starting with orders to Vietnam where he met his wife Huong and welcomed his first daughter Susan. In returning back to the US he was stationed at March AFB in Riverside CA and his 2nd daughter Sandra was born. Although he had many deployments throughout his career his main duty station was at Pope AFB in Fayetteville NC until he retired in 1993. It was here that he dedicated himself in raising his family while doing what he loved - flying on C-130’s which to him was the best aircraft ever made. He was passionate about being a flight engineer & instructor and serving with the 40th Tactical Airlift Squadron at Pope was one of the best times in his life. After retiring from the Air Force he began his 2nd career with CAE USA in Tampa FL as a flight simulator instructor continuing his C-130 passion for the next 23 years. During this time he received his Bachelors of Science degree in Professional Aeronautics, Magna Cum Laude from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
Tony was also a loyal Philadelphia Eagles fan and football season was a big part of his life every year. He was a long time member of Tampa’s Philly of the South fan club and spent over 20 years with other Eagles fans locally cheering on their beloved team together. He also loved fishing, working on his model airplanes and just being around his family. He was a wonderful husband and the best father and grandfather who selflessly gave everything within him to those he cared for. Tony was truly an exceptional man with a huge heart that impacted everyone who knew him.
He will be deeply missed and is survived by his wife of 50 years Huong Kres; daughters Susan Kres & Sandra Kres-Cromartie; grandchildren Marquell Cromartie & Cierra Cromartie; great-grandchildren; sisters Susan Kres-McCormick, Patricia Orlando, Joan Kristaponis, Jean O’Brien and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents Casey & Sara Kres.
A memorial service will take place on Friday, October 7, 2022 at 11am at Blount and Curry Carrollwood located at 3207 W. Bearss Ave. Tampa, FL. 33618. The family will receive friends following the service before going to Florida National Cemetery where Military Honors will be rendered at 1:30pm.
Please note for the Memorial service – for any Philadelphia Eagles fans, please feel free to wear your Eagles jerseys in Tony’s honor.
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