Obituary of Tony Wirjanto

To view the recording of the service, please click here.

July 9, 1958 – June 3, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Tony Suryawinata Wirjanto. He departed peacefully on June 3, 2026, at the Hospice of Waterloo Region, surrounded by his wife, Carol Lo, and daughter, Christine Lo, after a courageous fight against pancreatic cancer. He is also survived by his sister, Julie Yamaguchi, and was predeceased by his brother, Franky S. Wirjanto, along with his parents, Edward Wirjanto and Martha Lenajati.

Born in Indonesia as the third and youngest child, he displayed an unquenchable curiosity from a young age, which grew into a lifelong dedication to learning and scholarship. This passion led him to earn numerous degrees from various institutions, including two doctorates, paving the way for his career as a distinguished professor, a respected scholar, and an outstanding teacher.

Tony moved to Waterloo in 1991 when he accepted a position at the University of Waterloo. His work in econometrics—what he described as “the intersection between statistics and economics”—left a notable impact in the field. He passionately served in multiple departments, making significant contributions to research, teaching, and graduate student supervision. Tony was a shining example of dedication, integrity, and commitment to excellence in all aspects of his professional life. He will be fondly remembered as a steadfast mentor and academic advisor, taking great pride in the professional and personal development of his students and colleagues.

Tony married Carol in 1994 and embraced Christine as his own daughter from day one. He has been a devoted family man, consistently caring for the well-being of his loved ones. Just as in his professional life, he was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He opened his home to his parents and cared for them until their passing, and frequently hosted relatives for extended visits. Tony will be sorely missed.

The family will receive visitors at Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. Visitation will continue on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. until 2:15 p.m., followed by the funeral service in the chapel of the funeral home at 2:30 p.m. Reception to follow in the funeral home's Fireside Reception Room. Following a private cremation, interment is to be at Parkview Cemetery in Waterloo.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the University of Waterloo Endowment Fund in honour of Tony Wirjanto, to help carry forward his passion and legacy. Contribute to honouring Tony here.