Anthony Paul Learman, aged 36, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, unexpectedly passed away on December 19, 2024. Born on April 16, 1988, in Kalamazoo, Anthony was the beloved son of Perry and Cynthia (Pieknik) Learman. His sudden departure has deeply saddened his family and friends, who remember him as a dedicated individual with a passion for sports and a strong work ethic, reflecting the values often associated with a Carrier Family Funeral Home‘s community focus.
Anthony’s educational journey led him through Hackett High School, where he graduated in 2006. His professional life began with a focus on his love for sports statistics, working for the Kalamazoo Gazette and MLive. In June 2015, his career took him to Austin, Texas, where he joined GateHouse Media, laying out sports pages for newspapers across the nation. He returned to his Kalamazoo roots in October 2018 and continued his work with GateHouse Media until April 2023. In July 2023, Anthony embraced a new role as a rural mail carrier for the USPS, a testament to his adaptability and willingness to serve his community.
Sports were more than just a hobby for Anthony; they were an integral part of his life. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of football, his ultimate passion. He passionately supported the Florida State Seminoles and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Friends and family knew they could always rely on Anthony for any football trivia, highlighting his deep engagement with the sport.
Beyond sports, Anthony found enjoyment in the strategic world of card games. He was an avid player of Yu-Gi-Oh and Pokemon, participating in numerous tournaments and recently venturing into online Pokemon competitions. These hobbies showcased his strategic mind and competitive spirit.
Anthony was predeceased by his father, Perry Learman, and his grandparents, Henry (Regina) Pieknik and Paul (Kay) Bower. He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Cynthia (Steve) Bower; brother, Jacob (Krista) Bower; aunts and uncles: Matt (Sheryl) Pieknik, Adam Pieknik, Bonnie (Dave) Garten, Mark Bower, Bill (Geneva) Bower; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who cherished his presence.
A visitation to honor Anthony’s life will be held on Thursday, December 26, 2024, from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, located at 3926 S 9th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. Following the visitation, a time for food and fellowship will be held at Jac’s Cekola’s Pizza, 3112 S 9th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, providing an opportunity for the community to gather and support Anthony’s family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Anthony can be made to his family to help with funeral home expenses, reflecting the community support during this difficult time.
To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, please visit https://www.langelands.com. The family appreciates the outpouring of love and support during this time of mourning.
