Anthony John Pistilli

Deacon Anthony John Pistilli, affectionately known as Tony, AJ, and Padre, passed away on October 28, 2026, in Sylvania, Ohio, at the age of 70. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and deacon, Tony lived a life centered on faith, family, and service to others. His loving smile, kindness, and generous spirit touched countless hearts.

Tony was born on December 2, 1955, in Toledo, Ohio, to Jerry M. and Joan S. (Zielinski) Pistilli. He attended Little Flower School from kindergarten through eighth grade, graduated from Rogers High School, and earned an associate degree in business from the University of Toledo. He worked for CDI International for more than 30 years.

On July 8, 1978, Tony married his high school sweetheart, Diane E. Munson. Together, they shared 48 years of marriage, raising their family and making cherished memories through vacations, time at the lake house, and the everyday moments spent together.

Ordained a deacon for the Diocese of Toledo in 2006, Tony faithfully served for 20 years. He loved sharing the Word of God, baptizing children, teaching and training altar servers, and helping couples prepare for marriage. These were just a few of the many ways he lived out his calling. His ministry extended beyond the church through his kindness, generosity, and willingness to give of himself to others. Two sayings he often shared, "Be the attitude" and "Trust, surrender, believe, and receive," reflected the faith and spirit with which he approached life.

Tony found joy in golfing, hunting, fishing, and cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. He treasured time at the lake house and loved vacationing with Diane and their family. Music was another constant source of happiness; he enjoyed every genre, loved to sing, and seemed to know the lyrics to every song. He also enjoyed cooking, especially making his homemade spaghetti sauce and meatballs. Saltwater taffy and an occasional Crown Royal were among his favorite treats.

Above all, Tony loved his family and the people who filled his life. Those who knew him will miss his smile, his giving spirit, and the many ways he made others feel loved. His memory will live on in the hearts of the countless people he touched.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Joan Pistilli as well as his sister Deborah Pistilli (Culver). He is survived by his loving wife, Diane; sons, Jacob (Jennifer) Pistilli and Alexander (Breanna) Pistilli; granddaughter, Kenley Paige; beloved granddog, Della Mae; brother, Mikel (Ann) Pistilli; aunt, Jeannette Zielinski; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 9, 2026, from 2 to 7 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Avenue, Sylvania, Ohio, with a Rosary service at 6 p.m. Additional visitation will take place on Tuesday, November 10, from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at St. Joseph

Catholic Church, 5373 Main Street, Sylvania, Ohio, followed immediately by a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 5725 Hill Avenue, Toledo, Ohio.

In Tony's honor, please consider a memorial contribution to St. Joseph Parish or the American Cancer Society.