Anton (Tony) Iver Walenjus

Anton (Tony) Iver Walenjus of McBain, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 21, 2023 with his face in the sun, the place he loved most.

He was born in Cadillac on February 20, 1949 to Iver and Lila Walenjus. Tony and his twin sister, Susan share that birthday, completing a loving family of eight. They were all raised on the original family homestead on Walenjus Road in McBain.

Tony married the late Kathrine Telford, October 18, 1975 and they raised their family of four kids just a mile down the road from where he grew up.

A veteran of the United States Army, Tony was in the heavy artillery unit serving as Corporal in the Vietnam War. After serving, he found the lifelong occupation of carpentry and skillfully contributed to many of the homes and buildings in the area. This was one of the many cherished qualities that he passed onto his kids; build it, fix it, do it yourself.

As an avid outdoorsman, Tony loved hunting with his son, grandkids, and anyone else who was around on November 15. He enjoyed fishing for bluegills, smelt, sucker, and more, in the area lakes and rivers.

He was a lover of the Detroit Red Wings and racing of all kinds. Tony’s kids, grandkids, and animals were his life. He loved spending time outside in the yard, his garden, riding the four wheeler, or at the pool with them. His cherished dog, Peper, his faithful companion, was with him until the end.

We would like you to remember Tony as someone who was a friend to all. He was curious about the lives of others and was willing to help in any way, generously giving his time.

Tony is survived by his twin sister, Susan (Bill) Nees, daughters, Karri (Clark) Seger, Kimberly (Terry) Fineout, Teresa (Chris) Miller, son, Jon (Sara) Walenjus and beloved grandchildren, Briella, Brady, and Riley. Along with many dear nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathrine, grandson, Zachary Szabo, parents, Iver and Lila Walenjus, sisters, Alice Gilde, Arlene Vandervluct, Norma Rich and brothers-in-law, Edward Gilde, and William Vandervlucht and beloved dog, Maizie.

A Celebration of a Life Well-Lived will be held at Rehoboth Reformed Church in McBain with visitations Thursday, May 25, from 5:00-8:00 pm, and Friday, May 26, from 11:00-12:00. The funeral service will follow at 12:00 noon.

After a luncheon at the church, the Committal will be 3:00 pm at the Lake City Cemetery with military honors presented by the Lake City Legion Post 300 Honor Guard.

The family is being served by the Young-Holdship Funeral Home in Lake City. Words of comfort and memories may be shared on www.holdshipfuneralhomes.com.

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