Francis “Tony” Anthony Byrne

In loving memory of Tony Byrne who passed away peacefully in his 95th year, on December 13, 2022 in Port Elgin, Ontario.

Born in Stockton, England, Tony's parents were Lillian (Thirlwall/Musgrave) and Frank Byrne. He was predeceased by his wife Joyce (Cole), beloved daughter Gillian Rose (Byrne) and daughter-in-law Alice Telka. He is survived by his partner Mary Marsden of Port Elgin; sister Helen Wielhorski of Oakville, Ontario; son Robert (Port Elgin) and grandson Michael (Salt Spring Island); son Stephen (Port Elgin); son Philip, his wife Susan Gerofsky, granddaughter Adriana and grandson Nicholas (Vancouver); son-in-law Dan Rose and granddaughters Kelly Greenspoon (Rose) and Christy Rose Licata (Newmarket) and his great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Tony came of age in trying times during the Depression and World War II in England. He was proud of his Naval service as an aircraft mechanic, serving in the British Fleet Air Arm in Donibristle, Scotland. He turned his life into a prosperous adventure by emigrating to Montreal in 1952 with his new bride Joyce and young daughter Gill, raising a family who have grown prosperous and happy in turn. A true modern man in exciting times, he worked his way up the ranks to become an admired and respected advertising executive in Ottawa, as manager of Sears last independent advertising department, and President of the Ads and Sales Association of Ottawa. As a scout leader, ski patrol member and swimming instructor, his presence was appreciated in the community. Upon retirement from Sears, he took to travelling and experienced some hard-earned freedom to enjoy life. An avid photographer, he documented family milestones and later worked as part-time wedding photographer. Tony didn't completely retire, working for the Shoreline News and driving cars for Peninsula Ford, and only hanging up his keys at the age of 93. Over the last ten years he battled with several forms of cancer with determination and a sense of humour, and didn't let it interfere with his joy in life. 95 is very good innings! He will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him.

Memorial donations to Huron Shores Hospice would be appreciated by the family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Francis “Tony” Anthony Byrne, please visit our floral store.