Anthony S. Kolker, known to family and friends as Tony, passed away on September 7, 2016 at Woodbine Rehabilitation Facility in Alexandria, VA. A long-time resident of Rockville, MD, Tony was born in New York City, NY on October 16, 1939. As a boy and young man, Tony was a distinguished student, graduating from Yale College in 1960 and Yale Law School in 1963, where he was a member of the Yale Law Journal. Tony’s legal career began in Paris, France as a summer intern. He clerked for Federal Judge Edmund Palmieri in the Southern District of New York before private practice. He moved to Washington, DC with his family in the early 1970’s and worked at the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Tony’s life was marked by a battle of more than 50 years with multiple sclerosis, ultimately leading to his death. As the disease progressed, Tony’s life became more limited but for many years his rapier wit and quick mind remained fully intact. In later years, the course of his disease further restricted him.
Tony is survived by one daughter, Rochel and 10 grandchildren. From 1990 until her death in July 2016, Tony’s wife, Joanna, was his constant companion who enabled him to get the most possible out of his life. Joanna’s children, Nate (Tammy), Linda and Sharon, were devoted to him and he was equally devoted to them. Tony also leaves his brother, Peter; nephews, Dan (Cara) and Alex; niece, Carlyn (Troy); as well as many friends.
A memorial service will be held for Tony at a later date to be announced. Contributions in Tony’s honor can be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at: www.nationalmssociety.org/Donate.
Published in The Washington Post from Sept. 9 to Sept. 11, 2016