Anthony Mankowski, age 73, passed away at home on Wednesday, December 19.  He was born February 11, 1945 in LaSalle, Illinois to Anthony and Laura Mankowski. He is survived by his wife, Joanna, two children, Julie and Brian, one sister, Kathy (Barney) Joerger and their children, Tom and Donna.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

After graduating from Hall High School, he attended Illinois Valley Community College and Illinois State University.  Anthony became an industrial arts teacher in the Naperville School District 203 for 30 years. He met his wife, Joanna, while teaching at Naperville Central High School. They were married on August 19, 1972. After retiring from teaching he went on to work part-time in various hardware stores.

His loves included muscle cars (his Camaro SS), photography, gardening and yardwork, going to concerts, going to Drury Lane, eating out, cutting the lawn, and traveling within the United States. He found enjoyment in helping his children with their houses. He liked going to concerts of his favorite 60's and 70's rock bands primarily at the Arcada in St. Charles. His favorite rock band was Paul Revere and the Raider's.

It was the little things in life that Tony found beauty in, including watching the wildlife in their backyard.  He enjoyed many aspects of home, such as the pond with two waterfalls that could be viewed from their bedroom window. Having fires in the fireplace in winter, reading the newspaper, and watching westerns were staples in his life.

Anthony was a social person who loved being with family and friends. His Christian faith, family, and friends were his priorities in life. He was always friendly to people wanting to bring happiness to others through the little things like making sure to wave at anyone going down the street. He was particularly fond of sitting in the back row of the church, so that he could watch the children because of his child-like nature.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 28, 2018 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., Wheaton, Illinois. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 29, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Wheaton, Illinois. Interment will follow at Wheaton Cemetery in Wheaton, Illinois.

Memorial gifts may be directed to American Cancer Society , American Diabetes Associatio n , American Heart Association or Holy Cross Lutheran Church .

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com. We encourage you to share stories and memories of Anthony/Tony during his lifetime. For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027