Anthony Lee "Tony Mehlbauer

Anthony Lee “Tony” Mehlbauer, 78, of Owensboro, passed away July 27, 2026. Born on January 6, 1948, to the late Clem and Adeline Bethel Mehlbauer, Tony proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was a Vietnam veteran. He earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Brescia College and built a successful career with several companies, most notably serving as President of DCE, Inc. in Louisville, KY. His career afforded him the opportunity to travel the world, often alongside his beloved wife, Sandy.

Outside of his career, Tony, the Pharoah, found great joy in spending time with family and friends, playing the guitar, and singing. Many knew him as a larger-than-life personality with a flair for life and a passion for music. To those who loved him most, however, he was much more; a kind and compassionate man, an engaging conversationalist, a devoted protector, and a steady source of wisdom and encouragement. Tony lived with warmth, intelligence, generosity, and love, and he was always there for his family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Tony was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra "Sandy" Mehlbauer; his son, Anthony "Tony" Mehlbauer II; and his brothers, Kenney Mehlbauer, Charley Mehlbauer, and Larry Mehlbauer.

He is survived by his daughters, Jessica (John) Washer, Lauren (Nathan) Waninger; grandchildren, Scott (Megan) Mehlbauer, Dylan Mehlbauer, Trey Mehlbauer, Dariane (Alton) Payton, Ethan (Allie) Smith, Mikayla Waninger, Jackson Waninger, Paris Hohiemer; great-grandchildren, Leo Mehlbauer, Landon Mehlbauer, Mila Mehlbauer, Ellie Grace Payton, Brady Payton, and Baker Ray Smith; siblings, Pat Hamilton, Babe Frey, Donna Mehlbauer, Sharon (Ryan) Fuller, Rosie Stepp, Teresa Taucher, and Dan (Lynn) Mehlbauer, a host of nieces and nephews, along with many, many friends.

The funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory, where visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. A private burial will take place at Owensboro Memorial Gardens.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Tunnels to Towers or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Messages and condolences for the family may be shared at www.glenncares.com.