Anthony “Tony” William Panek, 66, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 18, 2022, at his home in Madison, Wisconsin.

Throughout his life he loved to discuss and argue about politics, world events, the Cubs, the Packers, Apple computers, Badger football, and anything Sci-fi. When it came to small talk and other topics, he was quiet, but attentive.

During his early years when he wasn’t building plastic model kits, he was building Estes rockets and launching them in fields with interesting results. As an adult, he enjoyed trying new restaurants on Madison’s State Street with friends, attending Badger football games with cousins, and cajoling friends and relatives to join him in viewing meteor showers or any other important astronomical event with his telescope.

In his later years, Tony spent more time at home and socialized on Facebook. He also played online fantasy games with the global gaming community for fun, but all the while wishing for a more robust Apple computer.

Tony loved animals large and small. For most of his life he had at least one pet cat, but it was in his later years that these “furballs”, as he referred to them, provided such great companionship. There was no doubt that a bond existed between him and his rescue and stray cats. Both showed their mutual love through concern and understanding for each other.

He was born on September 23, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, to parents William and Loretta (Weiland) Panek. Tony graduated from Holy Trinity Grammar School and Gordon Technical High School. He went on to receive an undergraduate degree in Astronomy/History of Science at University of Wisconsin-Madison. He remained in Madison for the remainder of his life. Tony worked for several years at UW Hospital and Clinics where he performed research support activities such as data reporting and computer support.

He is survived by many cousins and special friends.

A memorial service to honor his spirit will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to Dane County Humane Society. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Anthony Panek

September 23, 1955 - May 18, 2022

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