AUGUST 14, 1922 - DECEMBER 8, 2008

Mr. Anton (Tony) Zatko of Lethbridge, beloved husband of the late Mrs. Louise Zatko, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2008 at the age of 86 years.

Tony was born in the small rural community of Radosina, Czechoslovakia in 1922. Fearing impending war his father sold everything and relocated his family to Canada in 1936. The Zatko family settled in Nanton, Alberta where Tony would continue to live for the next five years.

In 1941 Tony moved to Lethbridge and began a forty-one year career with Canadian Pacific Railway, he established himself as a capable operator and in 1949 was promoted to locomotive engineer. With pride and skill Tony continued in this position until his retirement in 1982. In 1942 Tony joined the Canadian Military and devoted four years of service as a large ammunitions operator, primarily with the Calgary Highlanders Regiment during the European campaign. By the end of WWII Tony held the rank of sergeant, he returned home a decorated non-commissioned officer and continued his career with CP Rail.

After the war Tony met his adored wife of 43 years Louise, following a brief courtship they were married in Lethbridge where they raised their two children Dwight and Roxanne. Throughout his retirement years Tony enjoyed many hobbies including fishing, golfing, curling, traveling and gardening to name a few and has been a devoted member of the Royal Canadian Legion and Knights of Columbus.

We will forever cherish Tony for his courage and unfailing sense of independence and strength. His fierce work ethic and perseverance in times of challenge has been a model for generations to follow. Tony's wit and distinguished character will be remembered always.

Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life are his daughter Roxanne (Kal) Holloway; daughter-in-law Rosaland Zatko; three grandchildren Charlie Holloway, Adria Zatko, Melissa (John) Lenz; his two great-grandchildren Gillian and Lachlan Lenz. Tony is also survived by his brother Victor (Deloris) Zatko, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Tony was predeceased by his wife Louise Ell, son Dwight Zatko, mother Helen Svorat, father Micheal Zatko, step-mother Hermina Urieusky, and loving friend of twelve years Evelyn Groves.

After the clouds, the sunshine,
After the winter, the spring,
After the shower, the rainbow,
For life is a changeable thing.
After the night, the morning,
Bidding all darkness cease,
After life's cares and sorrows,
The comfort and sweetness of peace.
-Helen Steiner Rice

Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at 7:00 pm, on Friday, December 12, 2008 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 - 4 St., S., Lethbridge, AB.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am, on Saturday, December 13, 2008 at ST. PATRICK'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 318 - 10 St., S., Lethbridge, AB, with Father Raul Hernandez celebrant. Interment will follow in the Mountain View Cemetery.

Memorial donations in Tony's honor may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317 - 10 St., S., Lethbridge, AB, T1J 9Z9, or to any other charity of your choice.