Fred Anton

CEO and Pennsylvania power broker who was long an influential figure in Harrisburg politics was found dead in the Delaware River this week. Fred Anton, 83, was found Thursday November 2 2017, one day after he was last seen leaving his residence on North Columbus Boulevard and reported missing. The Republican was the longtime president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Manufacturers' Association, a statewide trade organization with significant lobbying power in Harrisburg during his tenure. Anton graduated from Haverford High School, earned his law degree from the Villanova School of Law and was a Marine Corps veteran. The Pennsylvania Manufacturers' Association said Thursday that, per Anton's instructions, David N. Taylor has replaced Anton as its leader, and that board member Lowman S. Henry will take over as board chairman. Mr. Anton was married to Elizabeth Daniels Anton. They divorced; she survives. Besides his daughter Sarah D. Anton, he also is survived by a son, Frederick W. IV; his partner, Emily Ryan; and a sister.