Anthony Michael John Bar

Anthony Michael John Bar, born Anton Jon Bar on February 25, 1946, came into this world in an American displaced persons camp in Germany. His parents, Helena Bar (née Wilczynska) and Jon Bar endured immense hardship, spending 5 ½ years in a forced labor camp during World War II and three years in a displaced persons camp, where Tony and his younger brother Marty were born. In 1949, the family sailed to the U.S., passing through Ellis Island. After a brief stay in Minnesota, they ultimately settled in Cleveland, Ohio.

Shortly before his passing, Tony reflected on the prejudice his family faced as new immigrants. This experience shaped his deep empathy for others facing similar challenges today. His progressive politics were rooted in these real-life experiences, inspiring his pride in union membership and his strong stance against political corruption. Despite significant health challenges, Tony voted in person on November 5th. He instilled in his children the unwavering importance of voting, regardless of the outcome.

Tony dedicated over forty years as a lineman for the Cleveland Illuminating Company, later First Energy, taking immense pride in his work. He worked tirelessly through storms, blizzards, and the scorching Cleveland summers to restore power, often putting in multiple days straight. He would bring his work truck home on special occasions, delighting his kids by taking them up in the cherry picker. These moments remain among their fondest memories.

Tony was a devoted father, uncle, and later, grandfather. He loved unconditionally, forgave quickly, and always welcomed his family with open arms and a warm smile. He set an example of strength, showing that emotions—laughter or tears—were not signs of weakness but of humanity.

He was a man of many passions, including music and dance. His tastes spanned opera, jazz, doo-wop, and R&B. He adored Jimmy Durante and delighted his children by playing "Inka Dinka Doo." He cherished old movies, Laurel and Hardy, and a beloved anime film, My Neighbor Totoro, introduced to him by his eldest son, Tony Jr. His feats of strength and playful antics—walking on his hands, doing backflips, and extending his body like a flag from a pole, using only upper body strength—left lasting impressions on his children. He liked to play and never lost the sense of wonder that we all are born with.

Later in life, the toll of a demanding job, injuries, and exposure to Agent Orange during his Vietnam service left his body more fragile. Yet, despite constant pain, Tony never stopped smiling for his family, earning the admiration of all who met him.  Tony was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rita, his greatest confidant and supporter; his eldest son, Tony Jr.; his partner, Erin Kelly; and his brother, Jimmy. His children survive him: Chrissy (Naji), Andy, Mary, Janet (Kurt), and Selena; his grandchildren: Julian, James, Caroline, Gabriel, Tristan, Zoe, Kenny, Joe, Nicky, Scottie, and Ryan; his brothers: Marty (the late Linda) and Ricky (Peggy); his sisters-in-law, Maria Principe and Susan Roman; his brother-in-law, Ray Principe (Karen); and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Tony was a light in this world, living an epic life from start to finish. We hope he is dancing the polka with Rita in the great beyond. Dad, we love you. Thank you for everything. You are our sunshine.

The public is welcome to attend a Service of Committal at the Mausoleum of Lake View Cemetery, 12316 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH on Saturday, February 15, at 10 AM. A gathering will be held at Brown-Forward, 17022 Chagrin Blvd., Shaker Hts., OH 44120 on Saturday, February 15, 2025 from 12 to 2 PM.