September 27, 1924 - October 3, 2023
It is with much sadness that our family announces the passing of our beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Anthony "Tony" Wilson of Comox, BC passed away peacefully - just six days after celebrating his 99th birthday. Tony (an only child) was born to parents Stanley and Lily Wilson in Eastbourne, Sussex, England. He attended school in Worcester until serving in the Royal Air Force from 1942-1947. While completing military training in Vancouver, BC Tony met Maxine Anne Wilson who was a volunteer Wren and they fell in love. After the war ended they reunited in England, married and lived very happily together for 65 years. They moved back to Canada in 1949 - living briefly in Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Calgary. In 1955, with two young children in tow, they finally settled in West Vancouver - our family home for thirty-three years. Through their volunteer work both Tony and Maxine became valued members of the community.
Tony was predeceased by Maxine Wilson in 2009; he is survived by his children Michael (Helene) and Judy (Jamie); his grandchildren: Mike (Mara), Lesley (Buchanan), Michele (Joe) and Daniele (Evan); and his great grand children: Zoe, Sofia, Camila, Westin and Henri.
Tony had an interesting and varied career. Trained as an auctioneer in England, in Canada he transferred his people skills to public relations and worked as a wholesaler for Nabob Foods before becoming the western Canada rep for the Danish Cheese Association. Tony especially enjoyed his frequent live TV work as a guest chef on the Mona Brun Cooking Show - always coming up with new ways to cook with differ-ent varieties of Danish cheese.
Tony loved being around people and was known for his charm and wonderful sense of British humour - especially puns. He loved music and played the vibraphone and trumpet as well as being a fan of Big Band music and jazz. He will always be remembered for singing his favourite songs at the microphone in front of an admiring audience.
Tony enjoyed travelling all over the world - sampling food and wine while making new friends wherever he went. He is survived by his companion of 11 years, Katherine Johnston who accompanied Tony during several travel adventures, plus weekly visits to local Comox Valley restaurants and live music venues.
Tony's last eight months were spent at The Views in Comox. He was well looked after by the caring and hard working MV2 staff and Tony (of course) made many new friends. We are very grateful to Dr. Amitabh Bakshi - who for over fifteen years provided Tony with such thoughtful care.
Tony will be truly missed - and we all hope to see him "somewhere over the rainbow"