Anton Werner Anderegg

Tony died peacefully with his wife and children at his side after a valiant battle with complications from cancer.

To the very end, Tony brought joy and laughter and love to everyone with whom he crossed paths. As physically taxing as his final days were, he was so grateful for the opportunity to court countless visitors during his two-week stay at the hospital, vowing to recover and walk out healthy. God had different plans.

On January 3, 1945, Tony became the first baby born in Gresham that year. He was the pride and joy of Anton and Frieda. It did not take him long to become a well-liked, and well-known, member of the community. He grew up delivering papers, working at the local cemetery, and getting into his fair share of mischief.

Tony spent his high school years playing basketball, dabbling in theatre, and, most importantly, courting Cathy Tull. He graduated from Gresham High School in 1963 and headed off to Linfield college that fall.

He received the tragic news of his Dad’s sudden passing just a few months into his first semester and returned home to care for his beloved Mom. His commitments at home proved too much to allow his return to college so Tony settled on pursuing a career with the fire service. He also made the self-proclaimed best decision of his life and married Cathy, his high-school sweetheart, in 1966. Last September, Tony and Cathy celebrated their 58th anniversary.

Before he could begin his career with the fire department in earnest, however, his country called. Tony took special pride in his service to the country. He served several years as a medic in the Air Force, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant. He survived a nine-month tour in Vietnam in 1970.

He took his position with the fire service shortly after his honorable discharge from the military and served more than three decades with the District 10 and Portland fire departments before retiring as a Battalion Chief.

He spent his retired years travelling with his wife, organizing family celebrations, rooting for the Yankees, walking his dog, and doing everything in his power to make time for his beloved family.

Tony is survived by his faithful wife, Cathy; his loving son, Mark; his cherished daughter, Beth, and her husband, Antonio; as well as seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and his devoted sidekick, Vonzo.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Tony’s name to the American Cancer Society and/or the Oregon Humane Society.