Obituary of Anthony Paul Klein

April 16, 1952 – Regina, Saskatchewan

April 20, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Anthony “Tony” Klein of Calgary, AB, died on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the age of 72 years on his own terms, surrounded by his loved ones, and is now at peace.

Tony lived a life filled with adventure and mischief being raised as a prairie boy in Saskatchewan with three brothers. At the age of sixteen, Tony embarked on what would later become his lifelong career at A&W in Regina, where he established lifelong friendships.

He ventured to Calgary in the late 1970s. He met his future wife and life partner Jan during a fateful road trip to Red Deer for his brother Pat’s housewarming. They married on February 25, 1984, which marked the continuation of what became a beautiful 43-year journey together.

Tony’s passion for camping, particularly RVing, was spent exploring the landscapes of Alberta and British Columbia. Whether watching orcas off the coast of Vancouver Island or exploring the beautiful Okanagan lakes, cherished memories were created. During the annual May Long Weekend camping trips to Trenville Park, AB, he became well known for stealing perfectly roasted marshmallows, inventing tales of flying snake creatures, and even setting up a satellite and a small TV to show NHL playoff games or host movie nights.

The cabin in Fairmont, BC, owned by his in-laws, Merv and Mary Anderson, held a special place in Tony’s heart. It was there he created memories with his family by the river and at the hot springs.

Tony’s talent for cooking made him the head chef of the Klein household, from daily dinners to giant holiday feasts. Signature dishes included spaghetti and meatballs, beef stroganoff, ribs, and his famous gravy and cheese sauce.

Above all, Tony treasured his relationships. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jan, whose unwavering love and support sustained him throughout his life.

Tony leaves behind his loving daughters, Jennifer (Nader) and Katie (Tanner). His grandsons, Hani, Zaidan, and Malek brought immeasurable joy to his life, as did his granddog Hank. Tony is also survived by his brothers, Gerry, Ron (Shelia), Pat (Sandy), and their families; as well as his mother-in-law, Mary, whose tenacity mirrored his own. Lifelong friend Sue Thivierge, fondly known as Auntie Sue, and his extended family and close friends offered invaluable love and support. In recognition of his A&W family, Tony expressed deep gratitude for the purpose and lasting friendships they provided throughout his career.

Tony was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Susan Klein, brother-in-law Mark Anderson, father-in-law Merv Anderson, and best friend Joe Thivierge.

His family extends heartfelt appreciation to MAID Calgary and the healthcare team at Bethany.

In Tony’s honour, his family will host an open house for family and friends on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please contact the family for location details.

If friends so desire, donations may be made in memory of Tony Klein to the Libin Cardiovascular Institute at the University of Calgary https://engage.ucalgary.ca/tribute?id=88cf8b52-9daa-4f33-8bdc-c813b117fffa or made directly to the Bethany Care Foundation, #100, 2915 – 26th Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2B 2W6 Telephone: (403) 210-4600, https://bethanycarefoundation.com/.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Tony’s family here.

In living memory of Tony Klein, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.