Anthony “Tony” Santos, age 60 of Turlock, CA, passed away on January 5, 2023. Tony was born on July 23, 1960 to John and Coetta “Pinky” Santos and raised in the areas of Stevinson, Gustine, and Newman while finally residing in Turlock, CA.
Tony was a 1980 graduate of Orestimba High School. He grew up with his sisters, Kathy (Chuck) Silva of Gustine, Cheryl (Tim) Lemas of Gustine, and Janet Cabral of Modesto. This past October, he really enjoyed the company of former classmates at the 1910-1980 class reunion.
Tony was a devoted husband to Kathy McDaniel since December 18, 2009. When Tony married Kathy, he became a father figure to her daughter Natalie (Bobby) Lee. He went on the become “Papa” to Natalie’s children, Bryler and Ava, whom he dearly loved. Pat and John Martinez became his in-laws.
Family meant everything to Tony. The Santos Easter Reunion was a “must show” event even when others started to fade. Phone calls and surprise visits were common with Tony. He usually came bearing gifts such cards on your birthday, pumpkins on Halloween, and lemons and oranges when in season. He was an avid Miami Dolphin fan and loved to display the American Flag.
Agriculture was in Tony’s blood, earning him the nickname “Hay Tony.” He started raking hay somewhere around the age of 13 for Cerutti Bros. in Newman. That progressed into hauling hay, driving a hay truck, and driving the hay squeeze. He worked not only for Cerutti Bros., but also Amaral Hay Transport, Diamond Hay and others in the area.
Tony will be greatly missed by family, friends and all who crossed his path.
Tony was preceded in death by his parents, John and Pinky Santos, his grandparents, John and Anne Santos, Jessie and Elsie Brummell, granddaughter Haylen Lee and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A Memorial Service will be held at Allen Mortuary, 247 N. Broadway, Turlock, CA on January 21, 2023 at 1:00 pm. Reception will be held at The Moose Lodge, West Main St., Turlock, CA.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to: Jessica’s House PO Box 1712 Turlock, CA 95381
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