Antonio “Tony” Flores, Jr., lovingly known as “Boss” to his family, employees, and many patrons, passed away peacefully at home on April 22, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on February 18, 1938, in Meade, Kansas, to Antonio and Lus (Perez) Flores, Sr.
Tony began his career working for the railroad before serving in the United States Army. After returning to Hutchinson, he held positions at Hartmann Manufacturing and Krause Plow. An entrepreneur at heart, Tony acquired the Anchor Inn on September 10, 1976. Tony continued to pursue many different business ventures including Anchor Away. He had a gift for connecting with people and built lasting friendships with restaurant patrons. Tony was always welcoming and was a familiar face at his restaurant, greeting guests daily.
Tony was an avid businessman and actively served his community as a catalyst for the redevelopment of downtown Hutchinson and in the establishment of antique dealers in the south Hutchinson business area. He was a cofounder of the Cinco De Mayo Charitable Trust, a member of the Community Improvement Commission, served as a member of the Hutchinson Community Foundation, a cofounder of the Old Towne Merchants Association, a past president of the American G I Forum and a member of the board of directors of the Bank of Kansas. Tony was also a recipient of various business awards, including Buena Gente “El Patron” Community Service, Sam Walton Business Leader, the Greater Hutchinson Convention and Visitors Bureau Tourism Award as business of the year and a special recognition at the Kansas State Capital. However, his devotion to his family always came first, and he instilled in them the values of faith, unconditional love, and a strong work ethic.
On April 8, 1961, Tony married the love of his life (secretary), Raquel “Rachel” Ramirez, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, where he was a faithful member. Together they dedicated their time, talents, and love to their business, community and family. They also shared many years together traveling and creating lifelong memories.
Tony is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Rachel; his children: Helen Flores, Carmen Hill (Claude), Angie Raya, Antonio Flores (Audry), Gregory Flores (Letitia), and Esther Acosta (Filiberto), all of Hutchinson; his daughter by heart, Vicki Loyd; and sisters: Jane Amaya (Santos), Dolores “Lola” Flores, Cindy Flores, and Rosie Landron. He is also survived by his brothers: Daniel Flores (Carol), Larry Flores (Connie Johnson), and Gregory Flores, Sr. (Susan); 23 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and numerous current and past employees, and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Cruz Marquez, Celsa Flores, and Linda Vieyra; brother, Gary Allen Flores; his beloved grandson, Tanner Anthony Flores; and son-in-law, Gabriel Raya.
A Parish Rosary will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 612 S. Maple, South Hutchinson. To accommodate the expected large attendance, the Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Church of the Holy Cross, 2631 Independence Road, Hutchinson. Father Eric M. Weldon will officiate both services. Burial will follow at Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson.
Friends may visit Elliott Mortuary from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday and from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. The family will receive visitors on Sunday at 4:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.