Anton Elias Kazanjian

In Loving Memory of Anton “Tony” Elias Kazanjian
May 14, 1940 – April 7, 2026

Anton “Tony” Elias Kazanjian, of Chester, Pennsylvania, a devoted father, cherished grandfather, and proud member of the Armenian Orthodox Church passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of his children. He was 85 years old.

Tony was born on May 14, 1940, in Salt, Jordan, to Elias and Dalyeh (Dugom) Armani Kazanjian. He was raised in a large, close‑knit family grounded in faith, perseverance, strong values, and an enduring belief in hard work. Though his formal education ended after the fourth grade, Tony’s life became a masterclass in real‑world wisdom. In 1958, he immigrated to the United States through Ellis Island, New York, beginning a new chapter defined by determination, resilience, and opportunity.

In 1968, Tony married Mary Anton (Tomassian) Kazanjian, with whom he raised five children the pride and center of his world.

A true entrepreneur and tireless provider, Tony worked day and night and had a rare ability to turn opportunity into success. Over the years, he owned and operated several businesses, including IGA Supermarket; A & K Carpets; Tony and Mary’s Steak & Hoagie Shop; Tony’s Steakhouse; and Debbie’s Bar. Tony was known for his unmatched work ethic, sharp instincts, and gift for bringing people together. Everywhere he worked became a gathering place, and every customer was treated like family.

Tony had a presence that lit up every room he entered. He was known for his humor, charm, generosity, and strong will. He seemed to know everyone and everyone knew Tony. He never arrived at a home empty‑handed; instead, he came with bags of groceries. That was Tony’s way of showing love. Even when he had little, he gave freely, always making sure others were taken care of first.

Outside of work and family, Tony delighted in life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid WWE wrestling fan, watching matches with genuine enthusiasm. He also loved playing cards, and anyone who played with him quickly learned that Tony always seemed to have an ace up his sleeve. It was all part of his humor, charm, and love of good company.

A man of deep faith, Tony trusted wholeheartedly that God would always be there for him. Through many medical battles later in life, his faith and determination never wavered. Time and time again, he defied the odds, inspiring all who witnessed his strength, resilience, and courage.

More than anything else, Tony was a devoted father. He taught his children the values of hard work, honesty, generosity, and perseverance—not through words alone, but by living them every single day.

Tony is survived by his loving children: Hachick “Hach” Anton Kazanjian; Vartouhi “Vart” Anton (Michael Sr.) Kazanjian Rinick; Georgette “Juju” Anton (Nicholas III) Kazanjian Morro; Jacqueline “Jackie” Anton (Johnson) Kazanjian Liou; and Adrian (John) Sarah Juchs. He is reunited in heaven with his beloved daughters, Eva Anton Kazanjian and Anoush Anton Kazanjian.

He was the cherished grandfather of Alexis, Gabrielle, Michael Jr., Alyssa, Nicholas IV, Zachary, Sonia, Alexander, Charlotte, Taylor, and Jasmine.

Tony was a loving brother to Hovig Elias, and to his late siblings George (Ann), Ibrahim, Hanna “John,” Yacub “Jack,” Azad, Sarkis, and Artin Armani, as well as his sisters Wardeh Kawar and Miriam Dervashian. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Tony’s life was defined by faith, resilience, generosity, humor, and unconditional love. His legacy lives on through his family and the countless lives he touched.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Viewing on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Gregory Armenian Church, 8701 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the Church. Interment will take place at Arlington Cemetery.

Contributions can be made to St. Gregory Armenian Church, 8701 Ridge Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19128