It is with great sadness that I am writing to inform you of the passing of Anthony E. “Tony” Slabacheski. Tony was a beloved member of the HFMA community, both in MA-RI and nationwide. Tony served on the Board and eventually as President. He then went on to be the unofficial photographer for the Chapter and Region 1, attending events and taking photos to chronicle our events. But in reality he did so much more, connecting new members to more seasoned ones, making introductions, and mentoring new board and committee members on the workings of the organization.
As President, I had the opportunity and honor to submit Tony’s name for Chapter life membership in HFMA. In the submission I wrote the following: “Tony is the Chapter “historian”, and attends every conference and event to take photos, talk with colleagues, and introduce himself to new or non-Members so that he could then introduce them to someone he knew in their related field. His attendance record is 100%, an amazing feat! He really takes an honest interest in those new to the healthcare field, and probably is the reason many of our current committee chairs and newer board members are in HFMA – they met Tony at an event and were hooked!”
Tony’s family highlighted his love of the HFMA organization in his obituary: “On Anthony’s behalf, a final hello to the members of F Troop at Beverly Golf and Tennis Club and all his professional colleagues at HFMA and MAPAM. The camera has been retired to the Hall of Fame.”
Tony was one in a million, and will forever be a part of the MA-RI Chapter of HFMA. Our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
We will be gathering remembrances from many of our HFMA colleagues to include separate communication soon. Please reach out to me at President@ma-ri-hfma.org if you would like to send in a submission.
Deb Schoenthaler
President, MA-RI Chapter of HFMA
