KONING, Anthony Koning

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, & Friend, Dedicated Christ-Follower and Community Servant.

Tony Koning, a cherished member of the Kelowna community, went home to be with the Lord on October 23, 2025. Tony lived an extraordinary and full life. He was born on March 11, 1943, during the Nazi occupation of France, to a young couple of Dutch heritage living on a farm near the village of Courgeon, Normandie.

Tony was the fifth born among his siblings — Bertus, Anske, Jean, Elisabeth, Johanna, Agneta, and Henri. His early years were marked by both hardship and resilience. Tony’s mother passed away when he was just a year old, and after his father remarried during the war, the whole family worked hard to keep the family farm going through those difficult times in occupied France. As he grew up, Tony embraced a life of steadfast faith, tireless work, selfless love, and humble service, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.
In Canada’s centennial year of 1967, Tony emigrated from France to Canada, bringing with him a spirit of determination, resilience, and kindness that defined his life. Initially, Tony could speak only French and Dutch, but with determination, he learned how to speak English and became a landscaper, transforming spaces into places of beauty and care. His landscaping career reflected both his artistry and his fearless spirit. Tony faced every challenge with quiet determination — whether removing massive trees others thought too risky, guiding heavy machines along steep slopes, or transforming rugged ground into places of beauty. He took pride in his work, not for recognition, but for the joy of creating something lasting and good. His strength, skill, and steady spirit inspired everyone who worked beside him and loved him.

Soon after emigrating to Canada, Tony met Mary, a fellow Dutch-speaking immigrant, with whom he fell in love. Tony and Mary’s marriage became even happier with the addition of two children. They named their son Dominique, with a name that means “gift of God” and named their daughter Jocelyn (Denby), with a name that means “bringer of joy.” As their children grew up, Mary and Tony celebrated the birth of Jocelyn’s three children: Wayne, Jessica, and Tyler. Mary passed away on June 15, 2014.

Two years after the passing of his beloved first wife, Tony found love again and remarried, sharing his life with Jennie, who had also lost a beloved spouse, Graham, many years earlier.  Their union brought him renewed joy, companionship, and happiness. Together, they built cherished memories while Tony continued his dedication to his Lord, his family, and his community.

Jennie’s daughter, Lisa, and her husband, Luis, are parents to two more grandchildren: Mateo & Santiago, and Jennie’s son, Ed, and wife, Jannette, are parents to the youngest grandchildren, Ethan and Emma. Together with Wayne, Jessica, and Tyler, that makes seven grandchildren in total. The sign by Tony’s house- “Casa Koning, the Grandparents’ house”- was an implicit welcome to all.

Tony’s life extended far beyond his family. He was deeply committed to volunteering and serving others. At Trinity Church, he faithfully served as an usher, welcoming all with warmth and grace. He regularly visited those in hospitals or care homes, offering comfort and companionship to those in need. His dedication to the Salvation Army’s fundraising campaigns reflected his belief in giving back to the community and helping the most vulnerable.

Tony’s kindness, generosity, and steadfast spirit left a lasting mark on countless lives. His legacy of service, love for family, and dedication to community will be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Tony’s life will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 1:00 pm, at Trinity Church, 1905 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army, in Tony’s memory, honouring his lifelong commitment to helping others.

Tony’s family, friends, and the entire Kelowna community mourn his passing but will forever carry forward his example of love, compassion, and service.