Anton “Tony” John Ill, age 82, of Waterloo, passed away peacefully at Waterloo Region Hospice on Thursday, January 8, 2026.

Tony was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ruth Ill (née Meyer/Richber), who passed in April 2025. He cherished the many years they shared together and was especially grateful to have spent two meaningful Christmas celebrations with Ruth’s family this past December.

Tony will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Carol Steinmann, Gunter Krimme, Judith Phillips, Lois Sallans, Mark Richber, and Mark and Miriam Weber, as well as by the entire Richber family, which includes more than 80 nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his sister Anna Hofheintz, his brother Stephen Ill (Barb), and sisters-in-law Cynthia Ill, Maryanne Ill, and their children.

Tony was a longtime dedicated employee of Arrow Shirts in Kitchener. He had a lifelong passion for golf — whether playing, practicing, watching live tournaments, or following the sport on television. In earlier years, Tony and Ruth enjoyed travelling with friends and family to Myrtle Beach once, and sometimes twice, each year to golf. He was also an avid car enthusiast and, in his younger years, enjoyed cross-country skiing.

Tony had a special fondness for young children and had a natural ability to make them laugh. He and Ruth were rarely apart, and the past eight months without her were particularly lonely for him. Together, Tony and Ruth were deeply committed to visiting others, especially family members residing in long-term care facilities.

Tony was predeceased by members of the Richber family, including brothers-in-law Ross Steinmann, David Richber, Paul Richber, Peter Richber, and Wally Sallans, and sister-in-law Jean Krimme. He was also predeceased by his parents, Anton and Katharina Ill, and by his siblings Joseph, Theresa, Frank, and Gary.

Cremation has taken place. In accordance with Tony’s wishes, a private family interment will be held at a later date.