Anthony Valkos

1931 - 2025

Anthony (Tony) was born in New York City to Gus and Pauline Valkos. He was raised in Teaneck, New Jersey and graduated from Teaneck High School in 1948. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1951 and was stationed at Castle AFB in Atwater, California for much of his career. He met his future wife, Ruby (Nancy) Steele, in New Jersey, after she moved there from West Virginia. Tony & Nancy married in 1953 in Vincennes, Indiana and moved to Atwater (the first of three tours of duty there). Tony was a jet engine instructor in the Field Training Detachment at Castle AFB and several other bases around the country during his 24 years of service. Nancy was an excellent Air Force wife as she packed up their home so many times and moved the family to the next base assignment. After Tony retired from the Air Force, he had a second career at Castle's Billeting Office where he oversaw the lodging on base for people who were there on temporary duty.

Tony had a long and happy life in Atwater for over 50 years. He and Nancy had many friends, loved the Los Angeles Dodgers, enjoyed watching Atwater High School football and basketball games, & his grandchildren's water polo games. He appreciated good red wine, Stan Kenton & big band music. Most importantly, he was under the good care of Nancy for over 72 years. Tony & Nancy moved to O'Connor Woods Retirement Community in Stockton in 2017 to be near their daughters. He will be greatly missed & never forgotten!

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, and Teri Verdecia, his only sibling. He is survived by Nancy, his wife of 72 years; his children, Joanie (Tim) Schwartz of Stockton; Paula Whealen of Sacramento: and Tom Valkos of Los Angeles. Also, his grandchildren, Luke Schwartz (Erin) of Modesto; and Elise Price (Nic) of Oakdale; and two great-granddaughters, Hailey Schwartz and Sadie Price.

Memorial service arrangements are pending. In-lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.