SMUZ, ANTHONY
Anthony Felix (“Tony”) Smuz Sr., 72, of Clearwater, Florida, died under the care of Suncoast Hospice on November 5, 2022. Tony was born February 16, 1950 in Salem, New Jersey, the son of Felix J. and Martha Alice (Frame) Smuz. He graduated from Salem High School in 1968 and entered the Air Force, serving for 4 years and attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. After leaving the service, he flew helicopter crop-dusters for Ag Rotors of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, thus cementing a lifelong love of helicopters. He came to Florida in 1984 and served as a detention deputy for the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office from 1986 until his retirement in 2009.
Tony is survived by his former wife, Karen; his present wife, Kathy; his sons, Tony Jr. (Amanda) and Steven (Kayla); his grandchildren, David, Christina, Bailey, and Aaliyah; his honorary grandchildren, Gavin and Kaylin; and his sister, Sandra.
Tony had a passion for flying and built and flew three full-sized experimental aircraft as well as dozens of radio-controlled model aircraft. He loved old science fiction movies and British comedies. He and Kathy enjoyed traveling, particularly to England.
Tony’s wish was to be cremated and his ashes privately scattered.
A memorial service will be held at Countryside Christian Church, 1850 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, on Friday, December 2, 2022, at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Helping Hands, c/o Countryside Christian Church, 1850 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, Florida, 33759. Arrangements entrusted to Veterans Funeral Care.
