BISMARCK, N.D. — Anthony "Tony" Vetter, longtime owner of Northwest Tire Inc., died Oct. 1 at the age of 80.
Vetter, born Feb. 26, 1942, was the 12th of 13 children. He grew up on a North Dakota farm before attending Dickinson (N.D.) State University as a music major. He moved to Bismarck to attend Bismarck Junior College after hearing about a great business professor teaching there. According to his obituary, "he paid his way by playing piano for weddings and accordion for parties."
Vetter had 17 year career with Firestone, which started in Bismarck, took him to Aberdeen, Fargo, Thief River Falls, Moorhead and eventually back to Bismarck. In Aberdeen, he met his wife, Celia on a blind date, and they were married June 6, 1964.
In 1977, Vetter founded Northwest Tire in Dickinson with nephew Al Wald. One location quickly became two.
"His ability to plan and look to the future, along with the help of many great employees, has led to the success and continued growth of Northwest Tire," according to his obituary.
Today, Northwest Tire offers more than 950 tire sizes, according to its website, including passenger and light truck, commercial, retread, farm and industrial tires. The business is about to open its 25th location.
The couple were involved in Marriage Encounter, leading weekends and training at the diocesan level, and were passionate about supporting Catholic education and religious vocations. They also enjoyed time with their kids snowmobiling, boating and camping.
Vetter enjoyed fishing and traveling, "especially if he traveled to fish!" He and Celia traveled to all 50 states.
The couple also enjoyed watching their children and later grandchildren participating in various activities.
Vetter is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, five brothers and two sisters.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, two sisters and his in-laws.
Services were held Oct. 7 at Ascension Catholic Church in Bismarck.