Herr Anton “Tony” Lederer, age 92, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, September 15, 2024.
Born in Burgau, Austria, on the 25th of February 1932. Tony would not enjoy a peaceful childhood, as he grew up in the middle of World War II. The hardships he would experience would guide him through the rest of his life.
After the end of the War, he had an opportunity at a better life and was offered two options to leave War torn Europe. He could either immigrate to Australia or Canada. He chose Canada because he had a sister living here. In 1958, he would arrive on a ship and take a long train ride, all the way to Atikokan, ON.
With only $2.00 in his pocket and no knowledge of the English language, Tony was offered a job as a lumberjack. It was a tough job, where horses were still used to haul logs and workers piled their logs by hand. He worked tirelessly to bring his sweetheart to Canada to join him. In 1959, his future bride, Maria, would finally join him to make their life in a new country. Their hardships together would build a family living in the bush, who would eventually make the move to Thunder Bay.
An industrial accident would change his life, but he would always work to provide for his family. Holding various jobs until he saw an opening for a Historical Tinsmith at Old Fort William. This was the trade that Tony learned as a young apprentice at the end of the War. He was chosen over 71 other applicants for this position and was proud to have the opportunity to teach visitors about his trade. Many of his tin lanterns and cups are enjoyed by those fortunate enough to own these authentic, handmade items.
Tony and Maria were proud of their heritage and would attend countless Oktoberfest’s. One of the most memorable times was when their children were learning to be great polka dancers. My father never spoke much to his own children about his experiences of the War. But his grandchildren could bring him to tell them stories which we had never heard before. He was a stern man, made humble by the innocence of questions from these young hearts. After his retirement, he spent many years living in his home until the last weeks of his life.
Left to mourn his loss are his devoted wife, Maria; son, Tony (Michelle), daughter, Jasmine; and son, Robert (Lisa); grandchildren, Nathan (Kristen), Nicole, Katie, Quinn, and Nolan; great-grandchildren, Emma, Tate, Dawson, Greyson, and Jaxson; as well as nieces, nephews, and other extended family in both Austria and Canada.
Predeceased by his parents; and all of his siblings in Austria and Canada.
Thank you to the compassionate staff of TBRHSC – ICU and St. Joseph’s Hospital for caring for dad.
Cremation has taken place. As per his wishes, a private family interment will be held at a later date.
If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tony’s memory to the St. Joseph’s Foundation or Hospice Northwest.
Geh mit Gott.
“Lord be with you, rest in peace.”
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
