A memorial service for Tony Goritz, a resident of Claremont for more than 50 years, will take place Saturday, February 17 at 11 a.m. at St. Ambrose Church, 830 W. Bonita Ave., in Claremont. A reception will follow. Mr. Goritz died January 26, 2018 at the age of 90.

He was born September 5, 1927 in Detroit, Michigan to Greek immigrant parents Michael and Angela Goritz. When young Tony was about five years old, the family moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he grew up. 

He married Elenore (“Ellie”) in 1950. In 1957, his employer, the Miratile Corporation, transferred him to Elkhart, Indiana. In 1963 he was transferred again, this time to Southern California, where the family settled in Claremont.

Mr. Goritz retired from Packaging Corporation of America, where he had worked as production manager and, later, head of quality control, in 1993. After his retirement he enjoyed working as property manager and accountant for Goritz Real Estate.

Over the years, he served in many volunteer capacities at Claremont’s St. Ambrose Episcopal Church, among them vestry member, church schoolteacher, senior warden and Lay Eucharistic Minister.

He loved sports and enjoyed reading, holding special affection for books about artists, their works and lives.

Mr. Goritz was well respected by co-workers, friends and family, and loved by many, his family shared. He was referred to in condolences as a special man with integrity, a role model of kindness, good humor, with a quiet presence, caring and gracious.

He shared a long and happy 68-year marriage to his wife Ellie, who survives him, along with his daughters Christine Montague (Dave) and Gail Perry; grandchildren Paul Perry (Sarah), Jamie Herrera (Brian), Nicole Bharne (Abhi), Trisha Plake (Clayton) and Alicia Perry; five great-grandchildren, all under the age of five, who loved and entertained their “Papouli,” Owen, Ravi, Adelaide, Elliot and Asha; brother George and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. Goritz’ name to St. Ambrose Episcopal Church at saintambroseclaremont.org. Checks may be mailed to St. Ambrose, 830 W. Bonita Ave., Claremont, CA., 91711.