Tony Hittel: A Life Well-Lived

It is with great sadness that I share the passing of my dear friend and life partner Tony.  Tony passed peacefully at home Friday August 30, 2024 at the tender age of 56.

From a young age, Tony understood the value of hard work. It was a lesson that carried him through a successful career in both the oil and gas, and mining industries. He had an unshakable sense of doing what was right, always putting safety first, and never settling for anything less than excellence. His intelligence was something to behold—Tony thrived in high-pressure situations where others might falter.

In 2000, we moved to Elk Valley, and from that moment on, Tony never considered anywhere else his home. He spent countless hours exploring the countryside, lakes, and rivers, taking in the beauty that surrounded him. He often returned from these adventures with pockets full of rocks, a simple but profound testament to his appreciation for nature.

Tony was a perfectionist—both in himself and in others. It didn’t matter whether it was in his professional or personal life; he held himself to high standards and expected the same from those around him. Yet, despite his exacting nature, Tony was a man of few words. He expressed his love not in grand declarations, but in the things he would do. His actions spoke volumes.

Tony loved his family immensely, though he might not have always said it aloud. His warm smile and kind heart could be felt the moment he entered a room. He was kind, gentle, and compassionate, always wanting the best for everyone he knew. But let’s be honest, he had little patience for intolerance, disrespect, or laziness—and he wasn’t afraid to correct you if you needed it, especially in the workplace.

Tony leaves behind a huge hole in the lives of those who loved him the most and will be missed dearly by many including his life partner, Sheila; their children, Mike (Megan) and Kaitlin (Travis); grandchildren, Rory, Penelope, and Hudson; his siblings: Michelle (Brad), Mike (Carey), Laurie (Rick), and Linda; his niece Amy (Dylan); nephews Morgan (Annie Marcus and Brooks) and Ashton, and his mother Judy as well as numerous other nieces and nephews. — Among all these relationships, his bond with his niece, Amy, was something truly special. They shared a connection that was unique, filled with mutual respect, love, and countless memories. 

Tony was an incredible person, inside and out, in every way imaginable. He was a kind, sensitive soul who preferred to avoid sad or emotional situations. Instead, he chose to celebrate life, accomplishments, and the people he loved. So, it’s fitting that we plan to celebrate Tony’s life in the summer of 2025. We’ll gather to share our love for him, his love for us, and raise a toast to a dear friend who will never be forgotten.