01/24/2025
Richard Lawrence “Rick” Anton, 76, of Pleasant Prairie, WI, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Northwestern Hospital in Lake Forest, IL, surrounded by love and family.
Born on May 7, 1948, in Evanston, IL, Rick was the beloved son of the late Marcel John and Rosemarie (Molitor) Anton. He grew up in a close-knit, faith-filled home, attending St. Mary’s Grammar School and St. George High School, both in Evanston, IL. He demonstrated exceptional academic aptitude, graduating summa cm laude from Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH, with a degree in accounting. This distinguished accomplishment laid the foundation for his successful journey to becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Rick honorably served his country in the United States Army Reserve, exemplifying his unwavering sense of duty, patriotism, and commitment to the greater good.
On August 27, 1977, Rick married the love of his life, Kathleen “Kathy” Randall, in a beautiful ceremony at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Their nearly five decades together were marked by unwavering love, partnership, and countless cherished memories.
For over 48 years, Rick devoted his heart and soul to owning and operating Anton’s Greenhouse in Pleasant Prairie, WI. There, he did more than cultivate plants—he cultivated a thriving business that became a valued and integral part of the community. Through his unwavering dedication, tireless work ethic, and genuine care for those around him, Rick transformed his greenhouse into a space of growth and connection. It wasn’t just the flowers and plants that flourished, but also the relationships he built and the lasting bonds he forged. His legacy will endure in the countless lives he touched, the beauty he helped to create, and the profound impact he made on everyone who knew him.
A devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Rick’s faith served as the cornerstone of his life, guiding him through both challenges and triumphs. While he found bliss in golfing, his greatest passion was always spending time with those he held dear. Rick’s life was deeply centered around his family and friends, and his greatest happiness came from being surrounded by their love, laughter, and warmth. Whether sharing quiet moments or creating lasting memories, Rick’s heart was always full when he was with the people who meant the most to him. His love for them was evident in everything he did, and they will forever carry his spirit in their hearts.
Rick is survived by his devoted wife, Kathy Anton; his two beloved children, Richard and Nicole Anton, who filled his heart with immense pride and profound joy; his sister, Arlene (Don) Meyer; his brother and business partner, Gary Michael Anton; his cousin and lifelong confidante, Mary (Molitor) Borre; his childhood best friend, Rocco Anthony Sapienza, whose steadfast friendship was a testament to decades of shared laughter and loyalty; and a wide circle of family and friends who will forever hold dear his kindness and the countless ways he enriched their lives.
A Mass of Catholic Burial to honor Rick’s remarkable life will be celebrated on Monday, January 27, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church. Prayers will begin at 9:30 a.m. at Proko Funeral Home, with a procession to the church to follow. Visitation will take place on Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Proko Funeral Home. Interment will be private.
Rick’s legacy of love, faith, and dedication to his family and friends will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
