A California native, Anthony J. Escover ’55 was not only a successful engineer but also an accomplished farmer. He graduated from Bellarmine College Preparatory and received a mechanical engineering degree from SCU. He worked for FMC for well over 30 years and oversaw such projects as the Bradley Tank and the coal mining equipment division. His work took him around the world as his group developed improved processes for mining coal. Anthony was a true family man and very proud of his six children: Cathryn (Warshawsky) ’81, David (deceased) ’83, Lorraine (Otis), Janette (Johnson), Joan ’86, J.D. ’90, and Yvonne (O’Connor). He also had 15 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He instilled in them the value of hard work and the pride that comes from doing a job well. He will always be remembered for boating, camping, fishing, and hunting trips with his family.

While engineering was his livelihood, farming was his passion. He built a home on acreage surrounded by walnut trees as well as a green house, where he grew tomatoes hydroponically. He taught his children how to build things and grow fruits and vegetables. Upon retiring, he moved to Hollister, where he initially planted macadamia nut trees on his ranch. A severe freeze wiped out the crop, and he ultimately planted several varietals of grapes. He called his vineyard Idyll Time and wineries like Pessagno, Calera, and Leal turned his grapes into exceptional wines. Anthony passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Dec. 8, 2016. His children remember fondly his “truisms,” where he established his answers for everything. These sayings have been passed down from his children to his grandchildren and will forever be attached to so many memories. They were part of everything—from his daily life to the famous 4th of July parties and wonderful vacations with his children and grandchildren.