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Jan. 29, 1964-June 2, 2026
Minot
Tony Ray Demaree, a man whose life was defined by a giant heart, an unforgettable laugh, a deep love for his family and the great outdoors passed away on June 2nd, 2026, at the age of 62. He was surrounded by his loved ones and family in his final days.
Born in Minot, North Dakota, on January 29th, 1964. He is the son of April and David Demaree. Tony spent his childhood immersed in family gatherings. Those early years spent with family at the lake, filled with camping, fishing, boating, and waterskiing, created bonds that lasted a lifetime. As a young man, he played football, played the trumpet, and sang in the choir.
Shortly after graduating, Tony met Peggy Driscoll. They were married on September 26th, 1986, in New Jersey, where Tony worked for the New Jersey Game and Fish Department, a perfect fit for his lifelong passion for nature. They welcomed their daughter, Toni Jean Demaree, on January 25th, 1989. Tony and Peggy divorced a few years later.
Tony later returned to Minot, North Dakota, where he found love and companionship with Robin Payne. They were married on October 31st, 1994, blending their families and bringing her son, Tucker Payne, into his life. Tony and Robin welcomed Hunter Demaree into the family on Tony's birthday, January 29th, 1997. Tony worked construction and various other jobs during this time, but his true joy was found outside. He passed his love of nature down to his boys.
Following the sudden loss of Robin on May 21, 2007, Tony fought through many demons and personal struggles, yet he continually strived to be the absolute best father he knew how to be. His greatest joy came from his grandchildren, Robyn, Luke, Eliza, and Lyra, who truly were the light of his life.
Tony was also a man of deep faith. On July 12th, 2023, with the support of his community and Alcoholics Anonymous, began a profound journey of personal recovery and spiritual renewal. Over the last three years of his life, this path not only restored his relationship with the Lord, but it also empowered him to change many lives by helping others navigate their own struggles. He found great peace, hope, and perseverance in attending church and reading his bible diligently. When diagnosed with cancer less than a year ago, Tony faced the battle with a faithful attitude, relying heavily on his devotion to God, his sobriety, and the steadfast love of his family and close friends.
Tony was survived by his parents, April and David Demaree; his sister, Candis Rose (Jamie); His children Tony Jean Demaree (Lamar), and their daughter, Eliza; Tucker Payne (Karleen), and their children, Robin and Luke; and Hunter Demaree (Jay), and their daughter, Lyra. His special friends, Janet, Nalonna, and Bruce; AA Sponsor, Kory Held; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and good friends.
Tony was preceded in death by his wife, Robin Payne Demaree; former wife, Peggy Brown; His sister Cheryl Ibarra; his grandparents, Rex and Margaret Demaree, Leo and Maggie Brilz, and Gordon Llewellyn; and numerous aunts and uncles.
A memorial service will be held at the Congregational United Church of Christ in Minot ND, 430 North Broadway, on Friday July 31st, 2026, at 11:00. Fellowship and lunch immediately following the service.
Memorials are preferred to the 515 Club-AA North Dakota, 515 5th Ave NW Minot, ND 58703 or an addiction organization of your choice.
Published by The Minot Daily News, July 28, 2026.