Dawn Zattau says:

I didn’t get to see him very often, but whenever I was fortunate enough to be with him, he made me feel like I had never been gone. I adored his smile, his stories, and the love he had for his wife (my cousin), Theresa, along with their two sons and the entire Walsh clan. My heart is broken that I will never again hear his voice, see his smile, or feel the warmth of his love. Rest In Peace, sweet Tony. You will forever be in my heart. ❤️

Alex Pappas says:

Tony was one of the warmest and most welcoming guys I have ever known. His son Thomas is one of my best friends and we played rugby together in college. I remember him going to our games at Cal Poly or down in Southern California and cheering us on and always looking forward to hanging out after the game for a beer and a funny story at dinner. It was so easy to talk to Tony because of his warm and generosity and because you knew he genuinely cared and wanted to learn more about you and lend a hand if he thought he could.

I’ll never forget at Thomas and Kelly’s engagement party, he asked me if I wanted a drink. I said sure I’d take a bourbon if he had one. Tony responded, “Coming right up!” and proceeded to pour me a glass of tequila. We both laughed our asses off and raised a glass to Thomas and Kelly. That’s still the best glass of tequila I’ve ever had…not just because of the taste, but because of the company and the memory. Going to miss you, Tony. My thoughts are with Thomas and his family.

Mark says:

Compa,
I’m going to miss our irreverent chats, our deep discussions and all the jokes you played on me. You are forever in my heart my dear friend. Godspeed and blessings to your family.
I love you big guy.

Vince Pappas says:

I regret that I did not get the opportunity to know Tony as others in his life had, but knowing and admiring his son Robert, I got a glimpse of the man.
“ Father’ is the noblest title a man can be given. It is more than a biological role. It signifies a patriarch, a leader, an exemplar, a confidant, a teacher, a hero, a friend.” –Robert L. Backman

Linda Hopp says:

Theresa Tono Thomas The Hopp family is saddened at the loss of your beloved Tony. Although you were going to be missed ~ We were so happy you both had moved to AZ to build your dream home. Knowing the awesome guy he was ~ we are sure he is in HIS hands and forever peaceful. Anything, just ask

Noelle Walsh-Rubio says:

Tony was the absolute kindest and sweetest man, I was lucky enough to call him Tio. He gave the best advice and I will treasure every moment we shared; from countless family Christmas’ to building cupcake towers together at my wedding. His generosity and ability to make a strong tasty drink were unparalleled. Rest In Peace Uncle 🙏🏻

David and Jan Todd says:

I am sorry to be late in providing this tribute to Tony. His untimely death has made me numb, left a whole in my being. Mere words cannot express my feelings for Tony, he was a true loving, Christian and gifted man. Tony and I bonded as husbands inserted in the wild, loving and wacky Walsh family. He was a good and honorable man, words that don’t come lightly to me. We loved talking major league baseball, not only the present but when it was in its heyday. He loved his Gigantes, as I loved my Cards. We would have discussions about Marichal and Gibson, Bochy and LaRussa, Posey and Yadi. I truly treasure the time we went to a ballgame at Busch Stadium and ATT Park…wonderful times.
He adored his wife Theresa and their boys, and their families. He was a great husband, father, grandfather and friend. He would do anything for those he loved, and often did. He was quite the handyman doing any number of projects around the house. From constructing furniture, landscaping, odd jobs, there was nothing too complex for him to do. He and I spent a day, I mean the whole day, mixing concrete in the Southern California sun for the often mentioned fire pit…teaching us that having concrete delivered was much better than hand mixing it.
We always look forward to the times we had with Tony and Theresa, whether the annual Walsh Family Christmas Party, or in Alabama or Illinois. And don’t forget our vacations together on a cruise ship, Sedona or in San Jose. And while we mourn, the true tragedy of it is that we will no longer be able to visit, talk, correspond. Particularly for his grandchildren, we should take great pains to ensure they understand his legacy, his greatness and his love for them.
I could go on and on. He will surely be missed. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Richard Blaney says:

I’m sorry to hear about the passing of Tony. My condolences to Theresa and his family and friends. He was a wonderful man with a loving heart. I’m glad I had the opportunity to know him as a friend.

Randy Jordan says:

Tony and I worked together for over twenty years. He knew every little detail of designing and building plastic ejection molds. When we got into manufacturing he was ready for this new challenge and ended up running the whole plant. He always wanted to share his deep knowledge, especially with young people just starting out. In Shanghai Tony became their teacher. In Mexico, everyone wanted to talk to “Don Tony”. So many Tony stories, so many memories. Love you and your wonderful family. Randy

Paul says:

Tony was always the first person to make you laugh, at anytime.
I’ll never forget going to the beach with Tony, Buck and my son Jake (7-years old) and playing an intense whiffle ball game where Tony was the umpire.
For what seemed like hours, Tony called every pitch and out with the greatest enthusiasm. Tony added life to everything and always made it more fun. Going to miss you Bruddah, RIP, we will never forget you.

Paul

David Hollings says:

It was a pleasure working with Tony. Every morning he made a point to walk around the shop and say good morning to everyone individually. It wasn’t a blanket good morning everyone. It was fun to watch him connect the dots to all the different benches kind of like the old Family Circus cartoon. I had a lot of good talks with Tony both about work and different things that were going on in the world and our lives, but regardless of the topic of the day he always ended the conversation with vocalizing his appreciation for life and living and love for his family.

Suzanne and Stan Angle says:

I did not think I would/could ever be shocked, at my age,but this has just taken the wind completely out of our sails!. My heart is simply broken. Tony was such “The Man”…so full of laughter, love, cheer, teasingness (if there is such as word!). Oh! Even though we did not get out there so very often, we ALWAYS made sure we spent time with Theresa, Tony and the family. Stan and I are truly grieving with all of the family, but oh! as a Christian, how I am rejoicing with Tony. HALLELUJAH! He’s HOME1

Debbie Walsh says:

I don’t even know where to start with my memories of Tony. We were “outlaws” together in the Walsh clan meaning we accepted all of the great, fun experiences that being with that family offered!. Tony always greeted me with a big hug and smile that was truly genuine and welcoming, showing sincere interest in how I was doing and asking if there was anything I needed. I have so many fond memories of the times Bob and I spent with Tony and Theresa; Bubba loved these times as well and loved and respected Tony for being the husband, father and friend he was. My special memory is the trip we took to Murphys, waking up at 3:00 a.m. and driving all night, talking and solving all of the world’s problems all the way there. Tony was a man that embraced all of life, believed in family, ethics, God, and fun, making everyone he met feeling welcomed and special. I will miss him. I loved him.

Monalisa Beserra (Ramirez) says:

I have great memories of uncle Tony but one of my favorite memories is as child would meet him, aunt Theresa, the boys, a whole lot of friends and family at Doheney beach and stay all day til dark.

Richard R Meyers. Rollin/ Chuck Olewine says:

You were so much more than a neighbor to us here in San Clemente. There has been a void since you left but we were all excited for you in your new venture.The memories left behind are filled with love,laughter and a fond appreciation for good Tequila! You were always there for any of us that needed help ,lending a hand to build fences or whatever the project may be. We had so many fun times together and your love and dedication to your family ALWAYS came thru as number 1 in your life.Know this my friend in heaven that we are here for the family you so loved.

Dawn Bonus says:

Tony was always the doer, provider, and keeper of family and friends. We could always count on him for anything and he gave from his soul. His love for music was so intense and he would surprise me with custom collections of beautiful sounds. Just because. Jeff and I called it our “Tony Music”.
When I was gravely ill, Tony and Theresa would visit me every day in the hospital (for close to two months) just to let me know they were not letting go of me. Tony would assure me that they would keep coming back every day until I came home. They gave me so much hope and prayer. Tony was a huge support to Jeff during our uncertain future. We’ll never forget that kindness and dedication….ever. Our lives were always intertwined over the years and how BLESSED we were to have Tony with us.
Jeff and I were beyond shock and disbelief when we heard that Tony had passed but he will live in our hearts forever. God Bless you dear friend.

Ed & Jennie Carlier says:

I met Don Antonio through work. Both being plastic injection mold designers was how we initially met. He then came to work with me, and being the open hearted person he was, we started to get to know each other outside of work.
My wife and I loved spending time with Tony and Theresa, the dinners shared at each other’s homes, the camping trips together, it was always a great time. We would crack up with the banter between them as the nights would progress. We eventually would refer to it as the TNT show, and it was always so much fun.
We never had the opportunity to meet Tony’s Sons and their families but always felt as though we knew each one of them because he always loved talking about them all. Tony would always share his love for his Sons, Daughter-in-laws and Grand kids. Always telling me how he wanted more grand kids. You could just see how he was a proud husband, father and grandfather, and it was quite obvious that his wife Theresa was the love of his life.
Tony was a friend that we will never forget, our hearts are broken, and our love and prayers go out to Theresa and all of the family. Don Antonio is going to be so very missed.
Love you man and rest in peace.

Richard Moran says:

It has been a week since we got the sad news on the passing of my best friend and brother Tony. Tony was truly a brother to me. We knew each other for over 50 years. Tony’s brother Gilbert and I were best friend in high school. Before Jeanne and I moved down to south Orange county, I ran into Tony and Theresa while I as attending UCI. We soon became best friend. Over the years, as our kids grew up, we have had many celebration and occasions. Tony and Theresa, at one point, invited us for a camping trip to Big Sur and our family grew with many more friends and loved ones. We enjoyed many trips to Big Sur and have many fond memories. Tony and Theresa have always been so hospitable and inviting. There have been many great meals, drink, and stories. And as you all know, there was always room for tequila. I will miss my brother but have many memories of our short time together. Every time that I sip a little tequila, I will always remember my brother as I am sure many of you as well.

Tina & Frank says:

Both Frank and I were so saddened to hear this news. We often talk about the many Sombreado cul-de-sac bon fires and all the the laughter. We will never forget Tony coming to our rescue to capture not one but two snakes in our back yard. He walked right up to them very casually with a 5-gallon bucked and scooped them right up and then relocated them in the hills. Our condolences to the entire Ramirez family..

Christine and John Wilfong says:

Theresa, Tonio, Thomas, We were stunned to hear this news. We offer our sincere condolences and we our keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Sharing many neighborhood bonding moments are our memories. Checking out our new homes on those first days. Landscaping, especially roto-tilling, was an adventure that Tony always reminded us of. Dealing with plumbing, walls, pruning, all with Tony’s help and advice and most of all, his humor.
We also had the privilege of watching Tonio and Thomas grow into the outstanding men they have become. This was a great source of pride for Tony, who always started our conversations with “How’s the family?” at which time he would, with great love and pride, let us know about his family. Know that his love for you was foremost and genuine.
Our deepest sympathies are with you all. God bless you all.

Scott Mayhew says:

Theresa I am so dearly sorry for your loss. In the short time I got to know you guys. I know for certain you are both amazing people. Tony was a special person and will be greatly missed. ❤️

Courtney Dal Porto says:

I can close my eyes and picture your dad, your husband, so perfectly. The way he hugged. His smile, his gestures. For some reason they are vividly in my head. And I’m not complaining. He was the best. And he made whomever he talked to feel that they were the best. Always so interested in whatever nonsense I was going on about. Always reminding my husband how lucky he is. His jokes, his sincerity, his thoughtfulness — all of it was a true joy. I am so very lucky to have had him in my/our life. And to see him with his other half, his hilariously funny and sweet wife. Gosh, their love is inspiring. And as a dad — you guys hit the jackpot, as you know. I’ll miss him. We all miss him so damn much. All my love. All my strength to you all. Xo

Totti says:

Mr. R:
It’s hard to put into written word the place that you occupied in my life, but here it goes. You were a friend, a confidante, a teacher, a role model and quite easily my best audience (you laughed at some of the dumbest stuff I did, but damn if it didn’t always make me feel special). The model you set as a husband, father and friend was truly an inspiration. I’m forever grateful for the countless belly laughs, serious conversations and everything in-between. You consistently cared for my family as if they were your own, from my parents down to my little boy. And above all, you showed me how life was meant to be shared…whether I was a dumb teenager, a brand new husband or a scared father…you’d put your arm around my shoulders, bring me in and always have the right thing to say.

When people ask about my favorite memory, it’s actually pretty easy. It was a girls high school water polo game. We were behaving like two real idiots in the stands, acting out different referee mannerisms each time SM scored a goal. And we finally landed on the best one, which stayed with us and became a part of our relationship from there on out…holding both arms down at a 90 degree angle and pointing our fingers out straight, mirroring the flamboyance of an Aussie Rules Football ref, while in unison saying “mmmmmm goouuuuuuul.” It even become the way we greeted each other later in life. And when we meet again one day, you can be damn sure my fingers will be pointing straight at you and that dumb Australian accent will be loud as can be.

Till we meet again.

David and Jeanne Roush says:

So sorry to hear of Tony’s passing. My wife Jeanne and I will always remember him with fondness and good memories. We were neighbors since 1986 and were sorry to see them leave the neighborhood. Our condolences to the Ramirez Family

Víctor Chávez says:

Tony was yet another “dad” for me in a in dad-by-committee childhood. Except he wasn’t just any dad. Anyone who got to experience him as Coach Ramirez knows the fire and passion he had for the game of baseball and wanting so badly to get us kids to play their best. Sometimes the passion got the best of him — and of me — where obscenities flew and were not misunderstood. However that was an experience core who we were, locked in a heated moment that in its challenge indicated something deeper: a caring for one another. And that’s what I knew about Coach Ramirez. He cared deeply about my well-being, which was apparent throughout my life in my exchanges with him that off the field were (thankfully) much more compassionate and rewarding; the energy behind those fiery comments turned eventually and frequently to absurd jokes, hearty laughter, reminders of “Theresa and I are always here for you”, and into a resonance of a man who cared so much for his family. He was my family too, and he let me know it so clearly. This is a big loss for so many of us. I’ll miss you Coach Ramirez. I’ll be toasting to you and my mom every time I lift a tequila to the sky.

Buck and Mary Dobon says:

One can only hope that their life has made an indelible mark on the lives of others. The postings here attest that Tony impacted hundreds of lives as a husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, friend, neighbor, coach, and mentor. Buck and I will remember his loyalty, compassion, dedication to family, and generosity of spirit. We have so many cherished memories of amazing times at Casa Ramirez – birthdays, Confirmations, graduations, baby showers, and of course, the infamous Halloween parties. Tony loved nothing more that to celebrate his family’s milestones. He was so incredibly proud of Theresa, Tono, and Thomas. He was there for our family as we raised our children – supporting us during Katie’s illness and rejoicing in her recovery, coaching David in sports and in life, and welcoming my parents as family. The memories of our camping days at Big Sur are so special – Tony making quesadillas down by the river, our Happy Hours, time by the campfire. He meant the world to all of us. Although his time with us was far too short, we will continue to hold him close in our hearts and honor him by carrying on his legacy. Well done, good and faithful servant. Godspeed.

Frank and Claudia Infante says:

Theresa, we are so very saddened to hear of Tony’s passing. We were very fortunate to get to know him. He was a wonderful warm person, great host and made the best margaritas for us. We know he loved his family tremendously and our hearts go out to you and the rest of your family. Praying for peace and comfort in all of your wonderful memories of him.

Stephen & Bella says:

My heart is broken. Tony and Theresa became our camping family. Every time we got together was an experience we will never forget. His witty jabs and conversations were awesome. We try to never say “goodbye” but rather “see ya”… There is a blessed hope awaiting all of us, Tony leapt into the arms of a Holy and Righteous God and awaits us.
Theresa, we love you and are praying for peace to you and the family.
See ya