Anthony E. ‘Tony’ Gobernatz Jr.
Oct. 10, 1941 -- April 15, 2025
In loving memory of Anthony Edward Gobernatz Jr., who died April 15, 2025, at the age of 83, surrounded by family and friends at home.
It is with heavy hearts and deep admiration that we celebrate the extraordinary life of Tony, a beloved veteran, aviator, mariner, Shriner, Knight of Columbus, Eagle scout and devoted family man.
A man of honor, adventure and unshakable character, Tony lived a life rich in purpose, passion and service.
He was born Oct. 10, 1941, the son of Anthony and Julia Gobernatz, in Iona Township in Minnesota. Tony proudly served his country as a U.S. Navy sailor during the Vietnam War, embodying the very spirit of dedication and bravery.
His commitment to service did not end with his military duty; he was a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus, where he carried his values of faith, charity and community into everything he did. Later in life, he became dedicated to the Shriners and Freemasons.
A lifelong lover of the skies, Tony’s aviation career was marked by integrity, skill, leadership and a deep love for flight. Whether piloting planes or providing expertise through his mechanical prowess, Tony’s eyes always lit up with joy when he spoke of his time as a mechanical engineer with Alaska Air or Southwest Airlines.
Never one to be confined to land or sky alone, Tony was also the proud captain of his own yacht, navigating the seas with his wife of 60 years, the love of his life, Lee Gobernatz, a.k.a. “Dude” or “Wifey,” who died April 17, 2023.
He approached the seas with the same calm confidence he brought to every aspect of life as a long-standing member of the U.S. Power Squadrons. As an avid fisherman, he found peace on the water, rod in hand, always ready with a tale about his catches.
Tony was a world traveler, with stories from remote villages to bustling cities. He embraced every culture with curiosity and respect. His travels were not only about seeing the world but enjoying the culinary experiences everywhere he went.
Tony will be remembered for his infectious laugh, his wisdom and his unwavering sense of duty with excellence. He leaves behind a legacy of honor, adventure and love for friends.
He is survived by many family members, including his three sisters, Margaret Small, Helen Cleath and Irene Danko.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. April 26, 2025, at Veteran’s Plaza Park, 801 S. Main St. in Boerne, Texas. It will be followed immediately by a Celebration of Life service and luncheon at 221 Camp Alzafar Road.
The family asks that donations be made to the Hospital Transportation Fund C/O Alzafar Shriners, honoring Tony’s lifelong commitment to service.
Fair winds and following seas, Tony. While your heavenly journey begins, your story continues in the hearts of those who love you.
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