TONY “BONES” WATTENBARGER
TONY “BONES” WATTENBARGER
Tony “Bones” Wattenbarger, 66, of Apache Junction, AZ, formerly of Unionville, MO, took his final journey home to be with our lord in his final resting place Saturday, April 15th, 2023. Tony was surrounded by family and love as he passed peacefully after losing a long and courageous fight with complicated medical conditions.
Tony was born to Kenneth and Hope (Hudnall) Wattenbarger on May 3, 1956 in Bexar County, TX. Later, Tony was joined by his younger brother, Ronnie. They grew up together loving life as brothers.
In 1971, Tony met the love of his life, Alice, who he married in 1973 at the age of 17, and they began their lifelong adventure. Tony and Alice would have celebrated 50 years of marriage this year. Together they had a love that was poetic and a true compliment to each other. Tony was a proud and loving father, and together they had two boys; Jeremy and Nate who completed their family.
Tony loved unconditionally and one of his greatest strengths was doing just that. He raised his two boys but didn’t stop there. He and Alice took on many children in their family over the years, helping whenever needed and never turned anyone away. Even when Tony had nothing to give he was always willing to give all of himself. Tony was a beloved husband, doting father and grandfather and a friend to all.
During Tony’s professional years, he was, among numerous things, a barber and auctioneer. Tony obtained his nursing license in 1990 from Kirksville Area Vocational School. Then working as a nurse and finally a nursing home General manager, where he maintained several facilities throughout Iowa.
Tony knew no stranger as he greatly enjoyed visiting with everyone he encountered and was frequently the one many went too when they needed a shoulder to lean on. His calm and comforting demeanor attracted so many to him. He was a caretaker to all and truly treasured his loved ones. Making sure those around him were taken care of was one of his greatest joys. Tony was a spirited soul who had many passions and never stopped dreaming. He found peace in nature and had an incredible artistic talent that he used to express himself.
Tony had a strong sense of spirituality as well as his faith in God. He was a visionary and was always thinking up new ideas, whether it be in some of his favorite subjects such as history and archeology.
Tony was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Hope Wattenbarger, brother Ronnie Wattenbarger, Grandparents George and Mamie Wattenbarger and Alan David and May Huddnall, Uncle Junior Hudnall, Aunt Shirley Jean Wattenbarger, Cousin James Wattenbarger, Granddaughter Betty Sue Wattenbarger and his canine best friend Abigail Dawn (Abby).
Tony is survived and forever remembered by his longtime wife Alice (Trenter) Wattenbarger of AZ, Sons Jeremy (Stacey) of TX, Nate (Jessica) of AZ, granddaughters Kirsten and Annabelle, numerous family members including an uncle and aunt, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, friends and extended loved ones.
Tony was loved dearly and will be missed immensely by all that had the pleasure of knowing him. Comfort and peace is found in his memories that will always be held close at heart.
Memorial services will be held at a later date.
