Anton "Tony" Vernon Zadnick

Anton "Tony" Vernon Zadnick, 85, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Tony was born on August 1, 1940, to Anton and Nellie (Talley) Zadnick in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Tony was a talented baseball player. He batted an outstanding 686 his Junior Legion year and played the short stop position phenomenally. Tony also enjoyed bowling and golfing with his buddies. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals Baseball and Poplar Bluff Lady Mules Basketball fan. He coached youth and American Legion baseball for decades and was known to be a wonderful mentor to many. Tony enjoyed traveling and visiting new places around the world. He spent much of his time attending sporting events across the United States, following and supporting his children and grandchildren. Tony was a faithful member of Grace United Methodist Church for many years. In his younger years, he and his wife Carol enjoyed fishing; he was known to be the “Crappie Slayer”.

Tony is survived by his wife, Mary (Findley) Zadnick; three children, Tony (Laura) Zadnick, Cindy Zadnick Chronister, and Debbie Zadnick Bess; four grandchildren, Bradley (Fran) Chronister, Brian (Whitney) Chronister, Katy (Wes) Bowles, and Jodi (Hunter) Hoffman; five great-grandchildren, Laura, Kent, Walter, Trey, and Arthur; his buddy for 70 years, Darrel Woolard.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents and high school sweetheart and wife of 48 years, Carol Lee (Williams) Zadnick.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 11:00am-12:00pm at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral service will follow beginning at Noon with Pastor Sheila Boyles and Pastor JC Bryant officiating. Burial will take place at Memorial Gardens Cemetery.