Anthony “Tony” John Orobko

April 9, 1958 - January 6, 2024

Tony passed away suddenly on January 6, 2024.

He is survived by his children, Ryan, Adam and Melissa, brother Andrew, and sister Kimberley. Tony was predeceased by his parents Walter and Jean, brother Steven, and wife Katherine.

Tony was born and raised in Winnipeg’s North End, where as a youth he excelled as an athlete. Tony was an offensive lineman with the North Winnipeg Nomads and the Sisler Spartans, and he played catcher with Legion 141. Tony also excelled as an air cadet, achieving the rank of Warrant Officer with 573 RCACS. During his high school years Tony also commenced his career with Canada Safeway.

As a young adult Tony enjoyed coaching football, umpiring baseball, weightlifting, playing guitar, fishing, hunting and travelling. Tony and Kathy married in 1985 and commenced raising their family, initially in their home on Atlantic Avenue and then at the farm in Howden, Manitoba. The family enjoyed fishing trips to Eagle’s Nest, road trips to Grank Forks, and growing and selling produce in the area. Tony’s impersonation of Jason helped sell many a pumpkin at Halloween! Tony and Kathy spent some of their happiest moments vacationing together in Mexico.

Tony retired from Safeway in 2008, but he then pursued numerous other occupations: heavy equipment operator, groundskeeper, property manager, community centre attendant, zamboni operator, nightclub security and bodyguard.

Worsening mobility slowed Tony in recent years, however one of his favourite activities was to visit his childhood friend Ed Haines in Alberta. Otherwise Tony would enjoy the serenity and simplicity of life at the farm, holding occasional bonfires and visiting with friends and family at The Nob.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Tony’s life will be held at Howden Community Centre Saturday, March 2, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Branch & Pyre Cremation Care