Anton Tony Joseph Murkowski left peacefully on his last great adventure August 8, 2005; he headed home to see his wife of 63 years, Marge.

Tony was born to Joseph and Katherine Murkowski in Enumclaw, Washington, on June 2, 1907. He left school at an early age to help the family farm in Enumclaw, and later worked as a logger in the area. He was planning to head to Alaska in search of gold when he met a pretty young waitress, Margaret Marge Alice Kidd. The two were married June 8, 1936 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Enumclaw. The newlyweds headed for Alaska and stayed 30 years. They raised two sons in Seward, Gerald Tony and Russell Joseph. Tony embraced the rugged spirit and adventure of Alaska, hunting to provide for the family table, and caring for others in their small town. During their time there, Tony explored a variety of occupations, from gold mining to owning a bakery, and commercial fishing to his primary profession as a longshoreman, working hard, but always putting family and friends first.

Tony and Marge retired to California after the Alaska earthquake. There he enjoyed driving a bus for folks traveling to sporting events, and spending time with family and friends. He was a true sports enthusiast who loved watching his boys play. He became a big fan of the LA Lakers and Dodgers. He spent his last eight years in the Tri-Cities with his son, Russell and his wife, Marsha, and in the loving care of Opti-Homes and Park Hills Adult Family Home.

Tony was preceded in death by his wife, Marge, two brothers and a sister. He is survived by sons, Gerald T. Murkowski and wife, Sandra, of New Orleans, LA and Russell J. Murkowski and wife, Marsha, of Richland. His surviving grandchildren are Lori Dugal and husband, Gerry; Jerry Murkowski and wife, Alicia; David Murkowski and wife, Kristine; and Brian Murkowski; all of Louisiana; Ann Murkowski and partner, Brett Russell; John Murkowski and wife, Wendy Pabich, all of Seattle; and great-grandchildren, Jane and Thomas Dugal and Erica Murkowski. Also surviving Mr. Murkowski is nephew Tom Murkowski and wife, Fran.

The family invites friends to a visitation Wednesday, August 10, from 7 to 8 pm at Einan’s Funeral Home. Mass and burial will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Enumclaw on Friday at 10:00 am.