Anthony Michael Maltese

Anthony Michael Maltese, 64, of Bellevue, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 25, 2026, at the Cleveland Clinic surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on April 13, 1962, in Sandusky, Ohio, Tony was the son of Anthony and Caroline (Iannello) Maltese. A proud 1980 graduate of Bellevue High School, he honorably served in the United States Army as an Airborne Ranger from 1984 to 1987 before pursuing his passion for culinary arts.

Tony’s passion for cooking and bringing people together through food defined much of his life. Whether catering professionally, co-owning Twin Lakes Golf Course in Bellevue from 2008 to 2020, or preparing meals for family gatherings, he found joy in feeding others and creating lasting memories around the table. His kitchen was often the heart of every celebration, and he made sure there was always room for one more. No one was ever without a seat at Tony’s table, especially during the holidays, when he welcomed anyone who needed a place to go.

Above all else, Tony was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and comfort to those around him. Known affectionately as “Papa Bear,” he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren and loved nothing more than being surrounded by family.

He is survived by his wife, Janet (Harlan) Maltese of Bellevue; his son, Michael (Yessica Garcia) Maltese of Bellevue; his daughter, Erika (Nehemiah Smith) Maltese of Bay Village; stepchildren, Kate (Ed) Matz of Vermilion, Lindsay (Dan) Musser of Bellevue, and BJ (Mark) Feller of Irving, Texas; seven beloved grandchildren, Grant, Brendan, Audrie, Avery, Alejandra, Caroleena, and Rome; his brother, Rocco (Marigene) Maltese of Sandusky; his sister, Carol Seeley of Bellevue; and many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Maltese, and his brother-in-law, David Seeley.

On Sunday, June 14, visitation will be held from 2:00–4:00 PM at Foos & Foos Funeral Home in Bellevue. Following visitation, we will gather at Twin Lakes Golf Course from 4:00–6:00 PM for food, storytelling, and a celebration of Tony’s life.

This opportunity is for family and friends to come together, share memories, laugh, tell stories, and honor the incredible impact Tony had on so many people. As all of you know, he loved bringing people together, and we hope this gathering reflects that spirit. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Stroke Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.