Obituary of Anton Grate

Anton J. Grate "Tony" Age 89. At rest Monday, March 10, 2014 at the Lakewood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Plainfield, with his beloved wife by his side. Born in Joliet to the late John and Mary (nee Pavesich) Grzetich, Sr., he was a lifelong resident. A WWII U.S. Army veteran, serving under the command of General George Patton, he was the recipient of the American Theater Service medal, Good Conduct medal, and the European-African Middle Eastern Service medal. Owner/operator of Grate Signs, Inc. Throughout his life, Tony had always been an "idea" person and an inventor. In addition to Grate Signs, Tony has owned, operated and/or been involved with many other successful business ventures. Tony holds six U.S. patents. Tony was well known for his good nature, and his jokes. He had always been extremely generous with his time and resources and was always willing to help others. Tony was much loved by his family and dear friends. He was an avid traveler. Surviving are his loving wife of 43 years, Sue (nee Hartsell) Grate of Joliet; his daughter, Cheryl (Patrick) Baron; stepdaughter, Debra (Randy) Peterson of Plainfield; three grandchildren, Nicole Peterson, Alexandra Benigni and Trevor Peterson; two sisters, Catherine and Margaret Grzetich both of Crest Hill; his Godson, Brandon Hartsell of Mooresville, N.C.; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, John Jr., Nicholas, Joseph and Edward Grzetich. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Joliet Area Community Hospice and Lakewood Nursing and Rehab Center for all their kind and compassionate care. Funeral Services for Tony Grate will be held on Monday, March 17, 2014 at 9:15 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church for Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to Joliet Area Community Hospice or St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church would be appreciated. Visitation Sunday 2-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For more information: 815-741-5500 or www.fredcdames.com