Anthony Anton

Anthony Anton, age 92, of Wilmington, DE passed away surrounded by his family on September 2, 2025.

Anthony, the cherished only child of Maria (Buinouska) of Bucovina, Romania, and Laskar Xanthos Anton of Thessaloniki, Greece, was born on July 2, 1933, in the Bronx, New York. A gifted scholar, he graduated from Theodore Roosevelt High School, where he was recognized with the prestigious Bausch & Lomb Award for outstanding achievement in science.

He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from Columbia University in 1954, followed by a Master of Science in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Arkansas in 1958, and later, a Master of Science in Polymer Chemistry from the University of Delaware in 1968.

In June of 1954, Anthony married his childhood sweetheart, Lucille Spero, also of the Bronx. Their love story began in the apartment complex where they both grew up and blossomed into a remarkable 71-year marriage, built on deep affection, shared values, and unwavering companionship.

Later that same year, Anthony was inducted into the U.S. Army. He served his country with pride and distinction in Korea for 16 months as an artillery operations and intelligence specialist with the 75th Field Artillery Battalion.

In 1958, he began his career with the DuPont Company as an analytical research chemist, focusing on nylon research at the Experimental Station. His dedication and expertise led to a promotion in 1970 to Senior Research Chemist, at which point he was transferred to DuPont's Textile Research Laboratory at Chestnut Run. There, he played a key role in the development of innovative modified nylon products used in carpets and automotive interior fabrics, working closely with Seaford Technical. He also served as a technical liaison for DuPont's European nylon carpet division, a role that brought him into collaboration with colleagues and industry representatives across England, Germany, and Switzerland.

Anthony's career was marked by significant and far-reaching contributions to nylon fiber technology and its applications. Over the course of his work, he authored 22 technical publications and was awarded 11 patents, reflecting both his deep expertise and innovative spirit. In recognition of his achievements, he received the DuPont Marketing Directors Award in 1985 for outstanding contributions, and in 1993 was honored with the Textile Division Expedition Vanguard Award for his leadership in establishing an intrapreneurial team dedicated to pioneering research into innovative technologies and applications for nylon fiber. Anthony retired in December 1995 as a Research Fellow in the Nylon Business.

He was a dedicated member of the American Chemical Society for over 70 years, serving the Delaware Section from 1974 to 1981 in the roles of Alternate Councilor and Treasurer. Additionally, he was a member of the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists for 25 years, and had been affiliated with Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Honor Society, since 1958.

In retirement, Anthony continued to pursue his passion for science through independent research conducted in his home microscopy laboratory. He also enjoyed photography and videography, thoughtfully creating video recordings of family events which he compiled into DVD albums and shared with relatives as cherished keepsakes. He deeply loved his wife and took immense pride in the close-knit family that grew around them.

Anthony was a devoted husband to his wife of 71 years, Lucille; his daughters, Cynthia (Herbie), Carrie (Joe), Neva (Dave), and Alyssa; his grandchildren, Natasha, Jessica, Alina, and Anton; and his great grandchildren, Collin and Samantha.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his beloved grandson Anthony, as well as many extended family members and dear friends. Anthony's kindness, dedication, and intellect have left an indelible mark on his family and the world around him. His memory will be cherished forever.

Funeral services will be held privately for the family.