Anthony Nicholas (Tony) Konstant

It is with sadness, but more so love and admiration, that we announce the passing of Anthony Nicholas (Tony) Konstant, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, inventor, and friend to many. Tony was born on December 1, 1925, to proud parents Nicholas and Plena Konstant. Throughout his remarkable life, Tony's infectious optimism, rare intellect, and immense love for his family and friends left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Tony graduated from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 1945 and a Master of Science in 1946, at the ages of 19 and 20, respectively. A dedicated athlete, he earned varsity letters in swimming for all three years of his attendance.

Tony began his professional career at Sargent & Lundy Engineering, but would quickly go off on his own to invent the very first pallet rack, which revolutionized the material handling business. Over his illustrious career, Tony held over 60 patents, invented the first boltless connection, and became the pioneer and leader of the racking industry. His dedication and innovation culminated in the founding and sale of Speedrack Incorporated and later, Konstant Products.

Tony married Bette Stroberg of Rockford, IL, and together they raised four wonderful children: Pam, Paul, Joan, and Peter. Their love and devotion to their family were evident in the 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren that followed. After Bette's passing, Tony found companionship and love with lifelong friend and second wife, Louise Mann of Cherry Creek, Colorado.

A long-time resident of Winnetka, IL, Tony was a proud member of the Kenilworth Union Church. Tony's uncanny gift for optimism and the twinkle in his eye were a testament to his joy for life. Tony's moral compass, kindness, energy and spirit were an inspiration in the truest sense of the word to his family and friends. He could often be found working in his garage shop, listening to classical music, and was happy to humble any children or grandchildren foolish enough to challenge him in chess, Scrabble, or a handshake-squeezing contest.

Tony had a lifelong passion for sport fishing and while he led many journeys to North Ontario that are the stuff of family legend, he spent even more time in Southwest Florida. He owned a home on Bonita Beach since the 1960s, rarely missing an early morning fishing the backwaters and passes of the Gulf Coast. In the spirit of his great love of fishing, Tony was a true conservationist who grew increasingly concerned with issues of environmentalism and the loss of natural resources.

In honor of Tony and in reverence for the waters that brought him so much joy, the family requests that, in lieu of gifts, donations be made in Tony's name to Captains for Clean Water (captainsforcleanwater.org).

In final thought, Tony was as humble as he was brilliant, and we hope he can forgive his family for sharing so boldly our great pride in him.