ANTHONY JAY PHILLIPS “TONY”

ANTHONY JAY PHILLIPS “TONY”

     Anthony Jay Phillips (“Tony”) passed away at his parent’s home Nov. 4, 2023, at age 44. Born Feb. 11, 1979, in Black River Falls, he was the only son of Gary Phillips and his then-wife Angie (Iverson).

     Tony started his education in Tomah but later moved back to Black River Falls. He graduated from Black River Falls High School in 1997. During these early years, Tony developed a lifelong affinity for the outdoors and a desire to explore the world around him. He was very active and outgoing. His circle of friends often enjoyed iconic Nintendo challenges. Video platforms, then in their infancy compared to today’s supped-up gaming, were nevertheless new and fun. On the weekends, he went skating next door at the roller rink, where he could do the limbo like a God.

     Tony loved to draw, often very imaginative and intricate images. His talent evolved, and he became a skilled tattoo artist. He opened Defiant and later Ink Slinger, tattoo shops in Black River Falls, where he shared his desire for creative expression. The flesh of many in our community bears witness to his ability and his passion to please. His talent included several styles, including traditional and realist. He was always grateful to those who trusted him to provide this service and forged many friendships through the years with his customers.

     Tony had no greater love than his family, including the love of his life, Carlie Bauer. Together they enjoyed boating, tubing and skiing with her daughter and his children from his earlier marriage with Kate whenever the opportunity arose. The couple enjoyed motorcycling and traveled to the Sturgis Rally last year.

     Children at heart are lovers of life, like Tony. His children, niece and nephews responded to the jubilant enthusiasm that he strived to share. He enjoyed attending hockey games and was pleased to count his growing skaters among accomplished players. He is gone too soon, but the beacon of his love and laughter will never fade. 

     Tony is survived by his father, Gary (Patty) Phillips; and his mother, Angie (Steve) Iverson; his sister, Amy (Travis) Phillips Verken; his children, Alyssa Phillips, Kendall Opalewski, Anna Phillips, Ian Phillips and Erika Phillips; his nephews, Trenton Clark, Thayron Turner, Aiden Gates, Huck Verken and Daimon Verken; and his niece, Emma Phillips.

     Tony was preceded in death by his grandparents, LeRoy and Verna Phillips and August and Patricia Iverson.

     Services for Tony will be held at noon Saturday, Nov. 18, at Family Worship Assembly in Black River Falls. Friends may call during visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17, at Torgerson’s Funeral Home of Black River Falls or from 11 a.m. Saturday until the start of services at Family Worship. 

     Torgeron’s Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.