Anton William [Tony] Hauk
November 2, 1920- May 22, 2018

Anton W. ‘Tony’ Hauk died peacefully in Calgary on May 22, 2018.

The youngest of six children, Tony was born to Ludwig and Roselia Hauk [Tumbach] at SW 7-21-23-W3 on the Hauk farm south of Sceptre/Lemsford, Saskatchewan.

Tony operated the family farm and gradually assumed ownership through purchase and inheritance. He remained on that farm throughout most of his life, with the following exceptions: Tony served in the Canadian Army during the period 1942-1945. Several years ago, he moved from the farm to Leader, Saskatchewan. where he lived independently in close proximity to supportive health care. Due to increasing declining health, in July, 2017, Tony moved to Calgary to receive additional assistance and support from a niece and the staff at Wentworth Manor.

As a young man, Tony followed his three older brothers as an ardent baseball and softball player. His love of sports remained throughout his life, with the Toronto Blue Jays and the Saskatchewan Roughriders being his favorite teams.

Tony was a very capable farmer; one who took quiet pride in his fields and farming practices. Ever enduring the harshness of both quality of land and climate in SW Saskatchewan, Tony’s strong work ethic and frugal nature permitted him to expand his ownership of land. His practices of high standards of animal welfare were evident in the quality of the animals he raised. Throughout his life, Tony believed that he should live within his means and needs. Thus, purchases were made through cash deals or money in the bank to cover cheques written.

Following the family tradition and example of sharing one’s talents with community, Tony became a member of the local school board. He served as an active councillor on the R.M of Clinworth #230 from 1966 -1980. As a delegate for the local R.M., Tony attended numerous provincial conventions.

For the Hauk family, participation in public service extended deeply into the church community. Tony was very involved with St. Mary’s Catholic Parish in Lemsford, Saskatchewan, a parish for which his siblings, Cecilia and Louis, along with Al Engel and Antoinette Engel, had organized and raised money to gather full funding that resulted in the building of the church in 1949. Tony, along with many area residents, volunteered his labour to build this church. Thus, it was completed with no labour related expenses incurred. Alongside family members, Tony was a choir member for many years. He assisted with organization and management of many parish related events.

Tony’s involvement with the Knights of Columbus was very important to him. Through his lengthy membership which lasted beyond fifty years, Tony was granted the status of Life Member. Throughout his life, Tony held a deep, abiding faith and trust in God. His prayer-filled life included daily recitation of the rosary and many favorite prayers. In recent years, via television, Tony participated in attendance at daily Mass. He held a special devotion to St. Anthony and St. Therese, the ‘Little Flower.’ The manner in which he lived his life was a living testament to the commandment, ‘Love thy neighbour...’

Tony was blessed with a patient, humble, gentle nature. Through his interactions with others, Tony exemplified kindness and respect. In the words of his sister, Cecilia, ‘He was always ready to give a helping hand. This was evident in the neighborhood, as Tony seemed to offer whatever was needed.’ Brother Philip expressed Tony’s sharing nature thus: ’Tony has been most liberal with his time, tools and equipment as far as his neighbors’ welfare goes.’ In turn, Tony readily expressed his gratitude for kindnesses offered to him.

Tony possessed a keen intellect. Among his numerous talents was his ability to reach decisions thoughtfully, logically and sensibly. This held him in good stead throughout his life. Being an avid follower of news reporting, both in print and telecast, he was up to date and prepared to enthusiastically discuss the politics of the day. Tony maintained his keen interest in politics throughout his life. Up until very recent years, he was an avid reader.

Tony held a deep appreciation for music. As he was both a very handsome man and a talented dancer, in his younger days, Tony was sought by many ladies to be their favourite dancing partner. His favourite musical genres included country, gospel, and ‘old time’ tunes. More recently, he enjoyed The Lawrence Welk Show on TV and much of the musical entertainment provided at Wentworth Manor.

Tony was predeceased by his entire ‘root family.’ Mother- Roselia- 1957, Father- Ludwig, 1971, Siblings: Louis- 1997, Alex- 1999, Cecilia-2000, Katherine-2005, Philip-2011. Tony was the last of this wonderful family! Tony, ‘Uncle Tony’, is lovingly remembered by 15 nieces and nephews, numerous great nieces and nephews, many friends and his long-time friend, Gerald Getz.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Little Flower Catholic Church, Leader, Saskatchewan at 1 P.M. on July 13, 2018. As per Tony’s request, internment will follow in Lemsford Cemetery, Lemsford, Saskatchewan. Memorial donations are gratefully accepted by: National Catholic Broadcast Council, dailytvmass.com, 1-888-383-6277 or Kinsmen Foundation Inc., telemiracle.com, 306-244-6400.

Matthew 25:23 ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant’.

To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Tony please visit www.choicememorial.com. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Choice Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services (403) 277-7343.