Antone “Tony Or Ta” Lee Artman

Antone "Tony or TA" Lee Artman, 65, passed away on August 6th, 2024, in Topeka, KS. Son of Janice (Meyer) and LeRoy Artman, he was born January 16, 1959 in Bellflower, CA. After relocating back to Kansas, Tony grew up and spent his life in Oskaloosa. He was a member of the Oskaloosa High School Class of 1977.

After high school, Tony began a career as an auto-mechanic specializing in auto-body repair and restoring classic cars, which was his lifelong passion. Many will remember his shop, "T. A. Body Shop," for years to come. During this time, Tony got married and had two daughters, Ashlee and Tuesdae. Throughout his life, many heard him share how proud he was of his children, including the step-children he gained, John and Michelle, in a future marriage.

Favorite memories of Tony and what made him special include fun times driving the "dune buggy" in local creeks and fields, teaching the family's kids how to drive before they could even see over the steering wheel, always having a "shop dog" that rode shotgun wherever he went, riding "Ole Silver," his motorcycle, with his siblings, coined the "Holy Rollers," and friends, and the list goes on and on. Tony had a philosophy that you didn't learn about life unless you used your hands, got dirty and had fun.

Remaining to cherish Tony's memory are his daughters, Ashlee Heeman (Andrew) of Georgetown, KY and Tuesdae Kubicki (Jason) of Indianapolis, IN; grandchildren, Henry Heeman and Haylee Heeman; brother, Roy Artman of Topeka, KS; sisters, Madonna Staus of Oskaloosa, KS and Deanna Killingsworth of Lawrence, KS; and multiple nieces, nephews, cousins and loved ones.

Preceding Tony to Heaven are his mother and father, Janice (Meyer) and LeRoy Artman, many relatives and friends, and his beloved canine companion, Lady.

Tony was a loved father, uncle, cousin, brother, and friend. His passing was sudden and unexpected but he was doing something he loved, riding his motorcycle. He has been a rock to many, and for that, we are all eternally grateful for the life he lived.

A Celebration of Tony's life will be held on Sunday, September 29th, at 1:00pm at the Oskaloosa City Hall. We invite you to share pictures or fond memories. It was his wish that we smile and reminisce together during this time.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Jefferson County Humane Society to honor Tony's love of animals. Donations may be made at jfcountypets.com.