Obituary of Antonio "Tony" Bajar
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Antonio "Tony" Mingoy Bajar on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the age of 82.
Beloved husband of Mila for 54 years, proud father of Lara (Ells MacNeil), David, Melanie (Matthew Sheppard), and Erica (Stephen Bourke), and cherished grandfather of Liam and Olivia Dinning, Cole and Eamon Sheppard, and Alannah, Jamie, and Cathal Bourke.
Tony was born in Baleno, Masbate, Philippines, on April 24, 1944, the eldest son of Restituto and Socorro Bajar. He was dearly loved by his brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, extended family, and many friends. Family was always at the centre of Tony's life, and he took great pride in seeing those around him succeed.
At age 21, Tony became the first in his family to leave the Philippines, travelling to California to enter the seminary and study philosophy and theology. Although he chose not to become a priest, the values that drew him there never left him. He went on to earn a degree in horticulture from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and carried throughout his life a deep belief in helping others, doing what was right, and seeing the best in people.
In 1972, Tony followed Mila to Canada. After a short time in Toronto, they settled in the Holland Marsh, where they built a life together and where Tony founded Antonio Bajar Greenhouses in 1973. The greenhouse became far more than a business. It helped family and friends start new lives in Canada and allowed Tony to support relatives in the Philippines through education and business opportunities. Tony and Mila worked side by side, creating opportunities for others while building a future for their own family. This business changed the lives of so many people, impacting future generations. This was his legacy.
Tony and Mila's partnership was the foundation of everything they accomplished. Even while working long hours, they raised four children who remember a dad who was always there. He taught them to read, drove them to baseball games and dance lessons, and patiently sat beside them as they learned to drive.
Anyone who met Tony will remember his big smile and his trademark fist pump long before fist pumps were fashionable. He had a calm, steady presence, a practical nature, and a wonderful sense of fun. He enjoyed being with people and had a way of making everyone feel welcome.
Tony was curious about the world and loved learning. There was usually a newspaper, National Geographic, or science fiction novel nearby. He and Mila travelled widely together, always ready for their next adventure. He also wasn't afraid to try something new, taking up skiing at 50, ballroom dancing at 60, and ping pong at 80. His love of bowling, ballroom dancing, and line dancing brought him many friendships over the years. One of his proudest achievements was bowling a perfect 300 game at age 73.
More than anything, Tony will be remembered for the way he cared for people. He believed in family, in hard work, and in giving others a chance. The opportunities he created, the encouragement he offered, and the love he shared will continue to be felt by those who knew him for many years to come.
Visitation will be held at Skwarchuk Funeral Home, 30 Simcoe Road, Bradford, Ontario on Sunday, August 16, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Monday, August 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., followed by cremation.