Anton (Tony) Christiaan Bastiaanse, 79, of Montague, passed away Sunday, October 18, 2026. He was born December 18, 1946, in Makassar, Indonesia, the son of Adriaan and Erna (Steenhard) Bastiaanse.

At about the age of 8 he moved with his family to the Netherlands. When he was in his early teens, the family immigrated to the United States on a ship called the Grote Beer (Big Bear) and settled in Holland, Michigan. In 1990 he became a U.S. citizen.

Anton enjoyed being active; running, bicycling, wind surfing, snow skiing and sailing. He was always looking for the next fun activity to try. He loved cars; driving them fast and doing his own engine repairs. He was a skilled machinist, a talented artist and all-around creative thinker. He especially loved to travel. In addition to returning to visit the Netherlands and Indonesia, he enjoyed exploring new destinations.

Throughout his long battle with Parkinson’s, he never lost his sense of humor.

Anton is survived by: his wife of 46 years, JoAnna (Eilers); children, Jackie (Doug) Vogelzang, Jim Bastiaanse, Dan Bastiaanse; four grandchildren; six great grandchildren.

Anton was preceded in death by: his parents, Adriaan and Erna; and brothers, Walter and Robert.

A celebration of life is scheduled on Sunday, November 1, 2:30-5:00 at The Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry St, Montague, MI. This will be on open house style event where friends and family can share stories and memories. There will not be a formal funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at www.michaeljfox.org.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.

www.harrisfhome.com