Ocala and Marion County residents are still in shock over the loss of an iconic restauranteur last week.
“Tony” Wu Li, owner of the highly popular Tony’s Sushi Japanese Steakhouse, died Saturday from complications related to surgery for a brain tumor. The 46-year-old and his wife, Jane, opened their eatery in 2000 and have enjoyed quite a following, not just because of the food they serve but also because of the family atmosphere that is always felt in the restaurant in the Colours Plaza at 3405 S.W. College Rd.
After learning of Li’s death, many of his customers took time to express their condolences via Facebook.
“We have lost a great friend,” wrote Maria C. Mendez-Zubieta. “He had an outgoing personality, generous spirit and lifelong passion for the trade. With his wife and family his restaurant became a landmark on Ocala’s culinary scene.”
Mendez-Zubieta labeled Li as a visionary in the restaurant business.
“He used to tell us everyone thought he was crazy for opening a restaurant uptown when several businesses were leaving the area,” she wrote. “He knew what he was doing!!! We love you Tony Li. We will miss you so much.”
Amber Burrow D’Andrea remembered Li as being such a nice person when she visited his restaurant.
“This is heartbreaking,” she wrote. “Prayers for his family.”
Diana Streetman Midcap wrote that Li would be greatly missed – a sentiment that was echoed by Erik DiLorenzo.
“He always welcomed us and talked to the girls and made us feel like a part of the family,” he said. “Sad day.”
Amber Bouton recalled the day she first met Li when she was in college and lived in an apartment near his restaurant.
“He hand-delivered me soup when I was too sick to drive,” she wrote. “That’s the man Tony was!”
Bouton said she spent many nights at Tony’s Sushi Japanese Steakhouse and always made it a point to stop in when visiting Ocala after moving away from the area.
“Tony has witnessed my girls grow through each special occasion,” she said. “He never met a stranger and was truly a friend to all. I will miss him and will never forget him. RIP Tony.”
Two of Li’s competitors also offered their condolences.
“The staff & management of Mark’s Prime would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to the family and staff at Tony’s Sushi,” Mark’s Prime Steakhouse and Seafood of Ocala posted on its Facebook page. “We are sorry for your loss. Ocala will not be the same without Tony.”
The Beach Ocala offered similar thoughts.
“He was invaluable to me when we first opened The Beach with his knowledge and experience,” the eatery posted. “Prior to that, My husband Jesse, the kids and I were loyal patrons and Jesse and Tony always had a laugh about their ponytails and muscles … or lack of. We will miss him as both a friend and customer. All our prayers to his wife Jane, his family, staff and all who love his smile and gracious hospitality.”
Information about funeral and memorial services for Li was pending as of Thursday.