Anthony Lynn (Tony) Van Ness, age 55 of 1316 Commercial Avenue, Clifton Forge, Virginia, died Friday, June 6, 2014 at his home.

Tony was born November 20, 1958 in Clifton Forge to the late Fred and Goldie Nicely Van Ness.

He worked many years as a trackman and railroad conductor for CSX Transportation and was a former member of the Clifton Forge Moose Lodge, the Clifton Forge Elks Club B.P.O.E., and UTU Local 623.

Tony enjoyed being outdoors, loved music, and playing the guitar.

He was a skilled hunter, fisherman, and gardener.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Fred Van Ness and Tracy Van Ness, and a sister, Cindy Van Ness Nicely.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Celia Van Ness of Clifton Forge; two sons, Joshua Swartz and wife, Birte of Roanoke, and Nicholas Swartz and wife, Brie of Elkton; a daughter, Larami Van Ness of Roanoke; five sisters, Shirley Lewis, Cathy Luckett, Becky Deane and husband, Reggie, Rosie Van Ness and Dolly Van Ness; a brother, Benny Van Ness and wife, Martha; a sister-in-law, Cathy Wells and husband, Dan; four grandchildren; an aunt, Rose Nicely and husband, Danny; an uncle, Frank Nicely; a number of amazingly close and caring friends; and the dogs he dearly loved, Daisy and Ruby.

Tony was known as beloved "Grandpa" to Farrin and Ulrich Swartz, and lovingly as "Pop Pop" to Jake and Remedy Swartz.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Blue Ridge Cancer Care nurses in Low Moor, Sentara Home Health and Mountain Regional Hospice.

Per Tony's wishes, an informal outdoor celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2014 beginning at 3:00 p.m. at his home.

The Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, is handling arrangements. The family offers that memorial tributes take the form of contributions to the Angels of Assisi, 415 Campbell Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016.

To send condolences to the family online, please visit www.nicelyfuneralhome.com.