Obituary

Anthony “Tony” Harry Viren of Machesney Park, IL, peacefully passed away in his home of 44 years on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2021, from heart failure at the age of 80, a life well lived.

Born September 7, 1941, son of Harry and Myrtle Viren, Tony graduated from Rock Falls Township High School in 1959 and enlisted in the US Army, serving in the 4th Armored Division in Germany. He was passionate about fighting for workers’ rights and advancing the labor movement. Tony was an international union organizer and representative for the United Steelworkers of America, the Office and Professional Employees International Union, and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. He took pride in organizing tens of thousands of union members, negotiating contracts, and representing the members he tirelessly served throughout his lifetime.

Tony was always easy to spot on a picket line, short in stature with broad shoulders, standing in solidarity with his union brothers and sisters. Tony was the Democratic candidate for Illinois State Representative in 2010. A close ally of local Democratic Party leaders, he always championed for a fair and just society. Tony retired from the Teamsters in 2009 to enjoy welcoming four beautiful grandchildren into the world: Lily, Ellie, Harrison, and Ruby. As his health gradually declined over the past few years, time spent with his grandchildren was his most-cherished moments.

Tony is survived by his loving wife, Virginia “Ginny”; son, Shannon; daughter, Colleen (Andy) Wade; grandchildren, Lily, Ellie, and Ruby Wade, and Harrison Viren; sisters, Pam (Dave) Erby, Vicki (Doug) Lutyens, Marlo (Tom) Neils; along with many loving cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents; sisters, Pat Cacciapaglia and Sondra Hart; sons, Richard and Mitchel; and nephew, Brad McCord.

Funeral service will be held at 12:00 pm Thursday, December 30, 2021 in Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory – Mulford Chapel, 4311 N. Mulford Road, Loves Park with a visitation from 11:00 am until time of service. Burial in Scandinavian Cemetery. Masks are required.