Thomas "Tony" Via, 61, of Gordonsville, Va., passed peacefully on Monday, March 19, 2018, after a long and valiant struggle with cancer.

Born and raised in Crozet, Va., he was a son of Junior and Frances Via.

Tony was an accomplished auto mechanic, later returning to school to earn a degree in computer sciences.

Tony met his bride, Ruth, and successfully encouraged Ruth to leave her home in Newcastle, Australia to join him in making a new home in Gordonsville. Who hasn't seen and smiled at Santa's sled pulled by tiny kangaroos?

In addition to his wife, Ruth, Tony is survived by stepchildren, Amy and James (Meredith), Clare and David (Tyler, Corbin), Brad and Cass (Logan); his mother, Frances; brother, David; sister, Sandy (Gary, Hank, Zach, and Richard); two special sisters-in-law, Marlene (Sarge) and Christine; as well as his special caregiver, Tiffany (Tiff-Tiff). Tony never gave up, and will always be remembered as our Hero.

Family night will be held Friday, March 23, 2018, from 6 until 8 p.m. at Preddys Funeral Home in Gordonsville.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Century Hospice, 941 Elenwood Station Lane, Unit 204, Charlottesville, VA 22901.

Submitted by Mayo Carter.