Antoine Abou-Ghanem

Antoine “Tony” Abou-Ghanem, 76, of Port Huron, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2020. Born on September 30, 1943 in Zahle, Lebanon, Tony was the oldest of five children. He immigrated to Port Huron in 1967 and learned English by watching soap operas on TV. He soon began his bartending career working for his cousin Helen David at the Brass Rail. For the next 32 years Tony ran a tight ship while he entertained thousands of patrons with his quick wit and colorful language.

Tony loved to be surrounded by family and friends, particularly if stuffed grape leaves and kibbee were on the menu! He played a mean game of golf, was a sharp dresser, drank Johnny Walker Black on the rocks, and his favorite song was Blue Spanish Eyes. The old country was never far from his heart as he often reminisced about his upbringing in Zahle, nestled in the Beqaa valley of Lebanon. During retirement, Tony led a quiet life punctuated by legendary card games at the local pool hall and boat watching near the Blue Water Bridge.

In 1987, Tony brought his younger brother Maroun to live with him. Maroun provided devoted care for Tony in his later years and their loyalty towards one another was a true witness to brotherly love.

Tony is survived by his brothers, Maroun, Michael and John; and extended family members both here and in Lebanon. He was preceded in death by his parents, Aziz and Odette Abou-Ghanem; sister Ida; and numerous other beloved relatives.

A memorial service to honor Tony will be held at a later date due to Covid restrictions. In the meantime, raise a glass and remember Tony’s mantra at last call:

“Yalla! Drink up - we gotta go!”

May the angels lead him into paradise; may the martyrs receive him at his coming and lead him to the holy city Jerusalem.