ANTHONY "TONY" TAKACS, 78, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018. Born in Fort Wayne, Ind. on June 4, 1940, he was the son of the late Joseph Takacs and Catherine Frye. Tony served his country's armed forces in the U.S. Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1962. Outside of his military service, he started his career with International Harvester and quickly transitioned to being a corporate pilot. Tony loved his career of flying and belonged to an elite group of pilots being the one of the first to certify for a Gulfstream V aircraft rating. Over his decades-long career as a professional pilot, he was employed by a number of notable people including entertainers and Fortune 50 CEOs. He ended his aviation career with Chrysler in 2012. Up until the time of his passing, Tony and his wife spent much of their time at their lake house making memories, socializing and spending time with family. Throughout his life, Tony was also an avid Notre Dame fan most recently highlighted by his grandson playing football at the university. Surviving is his wife of 55 years, Janice Takacs; children, Donna (Mike) Didion, Mark (Jennifer) Takacs, Joe (Susan) Takacs; grandchildren, Tabitha Merritt, Courtney Merritt, George Takacs, Henry Takacs, Judah Takacs; great-grandson, Paxtyn; sister, JoAnn Bowers; and many other friends and family to cherish his memory. Funeral service is 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 10700 Aboite Center Road, Fort Wayne (IN 46804), with calling one hour prior. Visitation also from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2018, at D.O. McComb & Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, 8325 Covington Road, Fort Wayne (IN 46804). Memorial contributions may be made to The Shepherd's House. www.shepherdshouse.org