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Anthony J. Tolin

FUNERAL HOME

Murphy Funeral Homes - Arlington

4510 Wilson Boulevard

Arlington, Virginia

Anthony Tolin Obituary

TOLIN, ANTHONY J., Brig. Gen. USAF (Ret.)

On Wednesday, June 22, 2005 at his residence. Husband of Bettina R. Tolin; father of Dell (Kellie) Tolin and the late Jason Tolin; brother of Phillip (Laura) Tolin. Also survived by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Richard R. and Gloria M. Ridolfi. Anthony was predeceased by his parents, Harold C. and Betty J. Tolin. A memorial service will be held Friday, July 8, at 11 a.m. at Fort Myer Memorial Chapel. Interment Arlington National Cemetery on Tuesday, August 16, at 9 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Capital Hospice, 9300 Lee Hwy, Suite 500, Fairfax, VA 22031. Arrangements by MURPHY FUNERAL HOME OF ARLINGTON.

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Published by The Washington Post on Jun. 26, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Anthony Tolin

Sponsored by anonymous.

32 Entries

Michael Makfinsky

February 8, 2025

To the Family of Vice President Tony Tolin - What an honor it was for me to work for, and alongside BGen. Tony Tolin. His presence as an inspirational and motivating executive at the company we worked when he unfortunately stepped away at such an early age, when making this World a much better place, has often been on my mind. I am grateful for having shared some business challenges when he Led the Team, with confidence and expertise rooted in experience.

Bob Swanson

February 20, 2023

I was an RCAF exchange pilot in Laredo between 1970-73, and worked with Tony in the T-38 Check Section. I lost track of him, when he went on to F-4s, but it is gratifying to know that throughout his career, the people he worked with, and befriended, had the same high opinion of him as I did. There are a few good stories to tell, and I regret that I won't have the opportunity to reminisce over our adventures with him..
I am happy to know that he had a rewarding career with the support of a loving family. I am sorry to learn that Tony passed on so many years ago, but knowing he has moved on, I want to give my respects to Tony, and my condolences to Bettina, children, and family.
Happy Landings,

Bob Swanson

July 28, 2020

Visiting the USAF museum today, and seeing the Black Jet there, reminds me of the day we found out we were leaving for the Gulf War. We gathered in a hanger and Col Tolin was there. I was nervous, but felt ok ‘cause he was about to tell us what was going on. And he started talking, and his voice starting breaking, and he told us he was t goi g with us. And he started crying. And I knew before he appreciated us, but I didn’t realize how much. Or how much I liked working for that guy. I’ll never forget that day.

Barry S.

November 22, 2016

A bit late, but my sincerest condolences on the untimely passing of a great Wing Commander. I served under Colonel Tolin in the 4450th TG and he was an Airmen's commander. Personable, approachable and always seemed interested in how his troops were doing. I still hold him in high regard.

Emilio Sandoval

July 17, 2016

Thank you

Bob McGregor

August 1, 2005

To the Tolin family & friends,

In this world of instant emails, Tony's passing has come by word-of-mouth. Personally, and perhaps as a representative of the F-117 community, I want you to know that Tony was a strong proponent of those under his command and the aircraft they maintained and flew. His leadership was a key part of preparing both for the successful Desert Storm mission.

Beyond his "official" side, we enjoyed his personable nature at Tonopah and chuckled as he cursed the fact that "field grade night" (age!) had dimmed his night vision, causing him to need cockpit map lights.

We will miss but remember him.

Don Jones

July 31, 2005

Battina, Gloria and Dick,

Most of the good things I learned about being a Commander I learned from Tony while I was with the 117s at Tonapah and my family (Chris, Heidi & Heather)was in Las Vegas. A caring man who was not afraid to show his feelings and take time to make sure you knew why it was important. Our prayers are with you--we know Tony is taken care of.

Donny R "Bogie" Jones

Col, USAF, Retired

Marijo Higginbotham

July 18, 2005

Tony, my very dear friend and my Stealth Commander, you are greatly missed. We shared many memories from TTR to Langley to Andrews and beyond. Thank you for being a part of my life. Bettina, thank you for the birthday party with his many friends. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this very difficult time.

Jim & Bennia Sholes

July 11, 2005

Bettina, We are so saddened to hear of Tony's death. We certainly enjoyed being neighbors and our outdoor conversations. Please know that our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. Love Jim and Bennia Sholes

Diane McCormick

July 9, 2005

To Bettina,

I'm so sorry for your loss. Tony adored you and you him, your marriage was an inspiration. If I can do anything for you, just pick up the phone.

To Dell, Phil, Laura, Judy and the rest of Tony's family,

So sorry you have lost your beloved father, brother, uncle, cousin. Tony will be missed by many, he was an amazing but humble man, and a wonderful friend. He touched many, and I am grateful to have known him.

To Tony,

You are greatly missed. See you on the other side my friend.

Tracey McCormick

July 9, 2005

I was lucky enough to know both Tony and Bettina since before they were "Tony & Bettina". Here are some things I know about them:

- I know that they are perfect for each other

- I know that Tony and Bettina will hook up again some time (hopefully next time Tony won't try that goofy "kiss my cheek" trick again)

- I know that Bettina has lots of great friends who will look after her and help her through this difficult time

- I know that Tony was the best leader I've met

- I know that I would have enjoyed being in one of Tony's squadrons

- and, I am pretty sure me and my F/A-18 could have kicked Tony and his F-16's butt in a 1 v 1

July 6, 2005

Bettina -

You are in our thoughts and prayers. Know that you always have a special angel to watch over and take care of you.

Love,

Rachael Green

Bill and Barbara Pack

July 5, 2005

Bettina, Gloria & Dick,

Please accept our sincere condolences in Tony's passing. Our prayers are with you during this time of grief.

Al and Sharon Satterfield

July 4, 2005

Bettina, Gloria and Rick,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We know how deeply Tony was loved by you all. God bless.

Robert Greer

July 3, 2005

To a brother-in-law, I met only once. You were the most easy-going general officer I ever met. It was a pleasure to know you. From a retired sailor: "Fair Winds and Following Seas". We will miss you Bandit 251.

Bob

Dan Phillips

July 3, 2005

Bettina and family

You are in my prayers and thoughts. We will all miss Tony--he was an exemplar for many of us young fighter pilots for the manner in which he always conducted himself professionally and personally. He exuded leadership through his life's actions. His flying skills were unmatched and his love for his famly were boundless. I learned much from him. We can only hope to be the man he was. Ros and I are here when ever you want.

God Bless.

Dan and Ros Phillips

Bob and Maria Pinkerton

July 3, 2005

While we did not get to know Tony very well, we heard so many good things about him. We know he will be sorely missed, as he was loved so much. Our prayers are with Bettina, Rick and Gloria.

Dylan Lee

July 3, 2005

Uncle Tony was a great man. And I like how he gave me stuff. I gave him my favorite Bob the Builder to make him feel better. I like how Uncle Tony used to pick me up by my ears and ride me around on his shoulders when I was 3. I will miss you. Say hi to Nan for me. I miss her too.

Love,

Dylan Age 6

Barbara & Jeff Church

July 2, 2005

Tony was a person you only had to meet once and know you would remember him forever. Warmth, humor, class, love of country, love of family - all were evident. Our deepest condolences to Bettina and our dear friends, Rick and Gloria.

Dinah Watson

July 2, 2005

Sincere condolences to all the family.

Amanda Lee

June 30, 2005

Uncle Tony was more than my uncle - he was my hero. He loved life - flying, fighting for our country, and being with his beautiful wife (Love you, Aunt Bettina.)

I had a huge growth spurt when I was 12 and was gangly and awkward as a result. My tall, tall Uncle Tony told me, " Always stand tall. Never be ashamed of who you are." That advice has carried me through some of the toughest times of my life and has helped shape me into the person I am.

Thank you, Uncle Tony, for being the great man and inspiration that you were. I will miss you dearly. Give Nan, Grandad and Jason a kiss for me. I love you.

Mandy

Laura Tolin

June 29, 2005

I will miss Tony more than anyone will ever know... He was my "big brother" (not just my brother-in-law) and my friend. He would do just about anything for us. Dylan says he misses his "Uncle" Tony but that he is with his "Nan" in heaven.

This website will be a testament to just how many people Tony touched throughout his life.

We love you and miss you terribly but we know you are in that special place with those who passed before you.....

So long......

Laura

Chuck and Britta Kuhlman

June 28, 2005

Dear Bettina, Gloria and Rick, We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that we are with all of you. We know you are devastated. We love you and pray that you will find the strength to carry on as you know Tony would want you to. Please keep in touch. Love Britta and Chuck Kuhlman

John Boland

June 28, 2005

To Mrs Tolin, and the children.

My sincere and heartfelt prayers and condolences to you all.

I served as Comptroller, under Col. Tolin with the Stealth Fighter Wing in Nevada. He was an amazing Commander. The best I ever served with. He was an amazing man - able to understand and appreciate all the intricacies & challenges facing of all disciplines of the Wing. Few men in his command position were as intelligent, able or compassionate.

His passing saddens me deeply and even though I'd not spoken with him since his time at HQ TAC/XP, Langley AFB.

Best wishes to Mrs Tolin and the family

John T Boland, Major, USAF (ret.)

Barbara Coffey

June 28, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. God's peace. Barbara

Dell Tolin

June 27, 2005

For reasons we cannot understand God called him home. I am eternally grateful for the years we had together and the friendship we built over the years. I am so proud of him for everything he accomplished and the number of lives he touch and can only hope that one day he will look down upon me and be as proud.

I lost my best friend but gained a new gaurdian angel.

I love you Dad,

Dell

Kathy & Stephen Sands

June 27, 2005

Stephen and I send our heartfelt condolences to Bettina and Dell and the rest of the family as they go through this difficult time. As always, our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Al Gowen

June 27, 2005

Tony:

My life is richer from having known you. Godspeed on your final flight!

Alg

Dr. Ernest Berrisford

June 26, 2005

Tony, May the wind always remain at your back.

Sincerely,

Ernie

Gary Rupp

June 26, 2005

I am deeply saddened that God had to call Tony so soon and send my heartfelt condolences to Bettina, Gloria, Rick and family. I will always treasure having met Tony and having felt his wonderful warm personality. His spirit will be with us forever.

Peggy Trahan

June 26, 2005

Although I had known Tony for a very short while, needless to say I was very impressed with him. From his friendly, charming demeanor, no one would guess of his incredible, meritorious background. And, his intelligence was further highlighted by marrying his beautiful, gracious sweetheart, Bettina. My heartfelt sympathy to the whole family, including, of course, his in-laws, Gloria and Rick, my very dear friends.

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