Antonio (Tony) Ramirez, 66, passed in his Queen Creek, AZ home on February 9, 2021 of complications related to COVID-19.
Born in Zapopan, Jalisco (MX) in 1954, Tony immigrated to the US with his family in 1959. He was raised in La Puente, CA, where he attended St. Joseph Elementary School and Bishop Amat High School. He studied engineering at Mount San Antonio College and Cal Poly Pomona. He raised his family in San Clemente, CA before retiring to his dream home in Queen Creek, AZ. He took great pride in both his Mexican heritage and US citizenship.
Tony was a man of many hats, both figuratively and literally. He was above all things committed to his family. No husband was ever more devoted to a spouse than he was to his wife of 42 years, Theresa. His raised two sons, Antonio and Thomas, in a home full of love, laughter and steadfast support. He treasured every moment that he spent as Abuelo to Orin, Adeline, Magdalynn, Lyla and Cora. He doted on his daughters-in-law, Angela and Kelly, to whom he never failed to offer his encouragement or assistance.
His commitment to those he loved was felt keenly by his larger family as well. As a brother, son, and uncle, he was quick to offer a hug, a joke and a drink. He was never shy about expressing his love and pride in others. A true confidante, he is survived by many who would regard him more as a brother than a friend.
Tony took great pride in his work as a skilled draftsman and exacting engineer, lending his knowledge and experience to all in his field. He passed his expertise in design, manufacturing and logistics on to many during a time of great technological change, and was respected widely and deeply. He was regarded similarly in several other mentorship roles, which included 20+ years of coaching football and baseball, as well as serving as a Confirmation sponsor and retreat participant for his Catholic parishes.
Tony possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of sports, late-20th century music, the history of the Americas, cars, and home repair. He was a lifelong fan of the San Francisco Giants, as well as a fervent supporter of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Green Bay Packers. He had no love for the Los Angeles Dodgers or USC Trojans. A master storyteller, he enjoyed few things more than regaling his friends with a tale—profoundly irreverent and improbably long—that brought everyday minutiae to vibrant, hilarious life. He did this most artfully while hosting celebrations at the home he so meticulously tended, around a warm fire with a glass of excellent tequila in hand.
His life was characterized by fierce loyalty, sacrifice, and unfailing generosity in time, talent and resource. All who knew and loved Tony will remember him as a truly honorable man.
A celebration of Tony’s life will be scheduled later in the year. In lieu of flowers, family and friends are encouraged to share their thoughts, memories and stories here.