It is with great sadness and deep love that we announce the passing of Anthony “Tony” Videka, a proud Croatian man who carried his heritage in his heart and passed down his traditions, strength, and values to each generation that followed.
Anthony was the beloved husband of the late Emagene (née Loughead) and the loving father of Scott (Janet), Mark (Anna), Mike C.F.D. (Marie), Todd (Marci), Laurie (late George) Krizka, and Rob Videka. He was the cherished grandfather of Ryne, Anthony (Jenny), Danielle (Adam) Krach, Michaella (Vince) Vivirito, Rhea (Bryan) Sternberg, Brittany (Matt) Ziomek, Paris (Adam C.F.D.) Mills, Tyler C.P.D. “Maddie” Videka, Heather Krizka, and Bryce Videka. He was the dear great-grandfather of Kylon, Aurora, Anyka, Krew, Callie, Asher, Kira, Ryne, Shane, Scarlett, Riley, Emerson, Owen, Neve, and Devonte. He was the fond uncle of many nieces and nephews.
Anthony was preceded in death by his siblings, Myra (late Otto), Mike (late Leona), Fran (late Buck), and Dolores (late Don).
He honorably served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant and serving as a paymaster, a role he carried out with dedication and a strong sense of duty.
Anthony and Emagene shared a beautiful love story. She moved from Wisconsin to work for Delta Air Lines, and it was love at first sight. They married on April 7, 1956, and built a life centered around love, family, and the many memories they created together. After her passing, he continued to carry her memory with him, and his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with the love of his life.
He had a lifelong passion for baseball, sharing his knowledge and love of the game through years of playing, coaching, and umpiring. Around town, he was affectionately known as the “Mayor of Oak Park Avenue,” where his familiar face, stories, humor, and larger-than-life personality made him a cherished presence in the community.
Recently, he received a special call from Cardinal Blase Cupich, who spoke to him in Croatian and offered the comforting words, “Ne boj se,” meaning “Do not be afraid.” The moment meant a great deal to him and reflected the deep Catholic faith that remained a source of strength and comfort throughout his life.
He leaves behind a lasting legacy in all who knew and loved him, who will carry forward his love, values, stories, and the countless memories they shared with him for generations to come.
Visitation: Sunday, August 23, 2026, 4 to 8 p.m. at Foran Funeral Home, 7300 W. Archer Avenue (55th Street just west of Harlem).
Visitation and Funeral: Monday, August 24, 2026, 8:30 a.m. until time of Prayers at 9:30 a.m. at Foran Funeral Home. Procession to St. Daniel the Prophet Church for 10 a.m. Mass.
Interment: Resurrection Cemetery, with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Veterans Administration, the American Cancer Society, or SIDS of Illinois in Tony’s honor.
www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/ https://donate.cancer.org https://sidsillinois.org/donate