Mario Calleja writes:

Death is inevitable and strikes one and all without exception. The passing away of Tony Borg is indeed poignant and it is extremely painful when one hears the stark news of the death of a dear friend. 

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The grief generated by his death was suffered by his numerous friends, both young and old, who had the privilege to know him during his lifetime. The funeral Mass, led by Archbishop Alfred Xuereb, was attended by President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca.

The high esteem Tony enjoyed was witnessed at his funeral, attended by a multitude of friends and relatives who turned up at Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary to pay their last respects. Most of those present were emotional and many were in tears as the coffin was carried shoulder-high amid loud applause. 

My friendship with Tony dates to almost four decades ago when we were still in our youth. Our paths crossed when both of us worked at the Medical Records section of the Gozo General Hospital as student workers. He had a bright and bubbly personality and his jubilant charisma and altruism facilitated his relations with colleagues and friends alike.

Our friendship was cemented on genuine and sincere mutual respect. His loss is a great blow to all those who were acquainted with him. He was a sincere man who constantly proved to be a dedicated husband and father.

His strong sense of family bonding was indeed prominent. He was an altruistic person who was always ready to help others. His jovial character and smiling “Hawn sieħeb” greeting to anyone he met will be recalled among friends and people at large.  However, two rare qualities Tony possessed, which endeared him to many, were his inherent goodness and his effervescence, which instilled in those who met him a feel-good factor. 

As a public officer he will be remembered for his tact, assiduity and, above all, his generosity. In every position he held, he was always ready to assist others, irrespective of their political inclination. This may be confirmed by all those who resorted to him at the Passports Office, at the Fontana local council, where he served as mayor, and the 15 years during which he served as head of secretariat to the then Gozo minister Giovanna Debono.

Tony braved the adversities of life with patience and determination. Six-and-a-half years ago he contracted a devastating illness; yet he bore it with courage, patience and dignity. He was always steadfast in his Christian beliefs, whereas his positive attitude never faded throughout his life. His infectious smile persisted till the very end, even on his deathbed.  

Tony is no longer with us but his memory will long live in our hearts. I convey my sincere and deepest condolences to his wife and two sons, as well as to his brothers and sister. May God grant him eternal rest and give his family fortitude and solace.

Until we meet again, goodbye Tony.