Anthony "Tony" Kust

Passed away Sunday, August 31, 2008, at his home. He was born May 20, 1934, in Klondike, Wisconsin, the son of the late Wenzel and Mary (Meliziva) Kust. Tony was one of eleven children. He graduated from Oconto Falls High School and earned his BS from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in 1957, where he played baseball. He served as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and then spent time working in Chicago before returning to Madison to earn his PhD (1970). Tony relocated with his family to Portage, MI in 1972. He worked for Asgrow Seed Company (UpJohn) until his retirement. He was a man of all seasons who enjoyed trout fishing, deer hunting and gardening. He was an active member of St. Catherine's Catholic Church in Portage for many years, where he enjoyed singing the choir, working in the Mary garden, and serving on the parish council. He also liked to cook, write poetry and play bridge. Tony was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Wenzel, Lawrence and Cyril; and sisters Blanche, Veronica, Marie, Ludi and Eugenia. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Joan (Branch) Kust; children Laura (Michael) Jacobs of Bluefield, VA, Mark Kust (Mary Loop) of Charlotte, NC, Dawn (Edward) Gershman of Chicago, IL, Amy Kust (Matt Varner) of Chicago, IL, and Gregory Kust (Angela Coffman) of Fishers, IN; grandchildren Alex Gershman and Sarah, Elise and Brandon Jacobs; brother George; and sister Edith. A private family memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the American Cancer Society or St. Catherine's Church.