Anthony P. Wester “Big Tony,” 78, of Swansea, IL, passed away Friday, February 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 25, 1946, in St. Louis, MO, to the late Eugene and Virginia, nee Batisto, Wester.
Tony grew up on “The Hill” with his large extended Italian family and attended St. Ambrose Catholic School. His family later moved to Belleville, where he graduated from St. Augustine of Canterbury. He attended Cathedral Catholic High School and was a standout three-sport athlete, graduating in 1964. On December 17, 1966, he married the love of his life, Beverly. He was then drafted into the United States Army in 1966, serving until 1968. In 1977, he earned his degree in accounting from SIUE. He later founded Clean Systems Inc., a family business, which he operated for over 25 years.
His greatest accomplishment in life was being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Big Tony was a gentle giant and will most be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, sense of humor, storytelling, and generous loving heart. We will miss him terribly.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his beloved uncles Norman and Jim Wester.
Tony is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Beverly “Bev” Wester, nee Kehrer; his loving children, Tina (Greg) Nester of Belleville, IL, Tony (Amie) Wester of Waterloo, IL, and Tracy (David) Funk of Mascoutah, IL; his treasured grandchildren, Mary and Jack Nester, Nash Wester, and Charlie and FitzDavid Funk; his dear sister, Debbie (Dan) Quartz; his loving brother, Rick (Brenda)Wester; many cousins, nieces and nephews; and lifelong close friends.
Memorials may be made to the St. Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Church, Belleville, IL, or to Althoff Catholic Grade School. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 11 to 2 p.m. Thursday, February 27, 2025, at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 27, 2025, at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Belleville, IL, with Msgr. William McGhee officiating.
A private burial with military honors will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO, at a later date.
