We climbed the Grand Teton in 2021 in honor of Tony
In Memory of Tony Day
Tony Day entered the world in 1964 under difficult circumstances, born as a heroin-exposed infant. Despite this challenging start, he thrived in Minnesota, developing a remarkable talent for ice hockey. As a young teenager, he was beginning to attract attention from NHL scouts, showing tremendous promise on the ice.
At age 15, during a routine sports physical, a lump in his neck was discovered. He was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s Disease and faced harsh treatments with little hope for recovery. His promising hockey career was cut short, and his family relocated to Ohio in the midst of his treatment. It was there that Tony met Teresa, who would later become his wife, while she battled the same illness. Many of the children they met at the hospital did not survive, but Tony and Teresa remained hopeful and positive, forging a bond that would last a lifetime.
After both achieved remission, Tony and Teresa moved to California so Tony could pursue a new passion: playing guitar. They spent an adventurous decade performing with a popular band at some of Los Angeles’ most iconic clubs, all while running a successful business. In 1994, their lives were upended when the Northridge earthquake struck less than a mile from their home, destroying much of their belongings. They sold what remained of their business and returned to Ohio, settling into a home by a lake and embracing a new chapter of life.
Tony faced additional health challenges over the years, including heart problems requiring a triple bypass and valve replacement, which he overcame successfully. In 2016, he was diagnosed with bladder cancer and underwent surgery at the Cleveland Clinic, including bladder removal and a neo-bladder reconstruction. After a brief remission, a recurrence affecting his kidney and ureter led him to meet Dr. Christopher Weight, who confirmed the diagnosis and performed the necessary surgery.
Throughout his life, Tony and Teresa expressed deep gratitude for the exceptional care they received from the many physicians and surgeons who guided them through their extraordinary journey.
Tony Day’s life was defined by resilience, courage, and a zest for living. He faced each challenge with determination, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.
