Antonio “Tony” Vasquez was born in Bayard, Nebraska, on September 13, 1946 and grew up in Edcouch, Texas and Glenn’s Ferry, Idaho. Tony passed away on Monday, February 1, 2021. He was a pillar of strength for his mother and sister throughout his life.
Tony was a migrant farm worker who traveled back and forth from Texas to Idaho, in search of opportunity and a better life for himself and his family. He eventually settled in Caldwell, Idaho. Despite leaving school in the 8th grade for this work, he returned to his education and completed his GED in 1978. He had a passion for learning and continually strove to further his education. Attending courses at Oregon State, Boise State, and many others.
Beginning in 1975, Tony spent most of his career with the J.R Simplot Company. He earned frequent awards for excellence and achievement. Among his accomplishments, he developed several patents and innovations in research and development. He was referred to as a Food Scientist and would often experiment on his family.
On any given day, rain or shine, Tony could be found on the golf course perfecting his game. He claimed to be “the best putter this side of Notus”. The course was where he felt most at home. He spent much of his free time out on the links with friends and family, and even scored a few holes in one! He enjoyed beating his nephews at his favorite sport. Golf played a big part in Tony’s life and he established many close and lasting relationships on the course. He also enjoyed playing softball and spending time at the local bowling alleys.
Tony was an energetic presence at all family gatherings. Whenever he entered the room, he came in full force with smiles and hugs for everyone. Many family members fondly remember his catch phrases and nicknames for them. Regardless of his tough exterior, he enjoyed lovingly teasing his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Everyone looked forward to Tony’s annual Christmas tradition, gifts of stacks of lottery tickets for all. No one ever seemed to win, but we all had a laugh dreaming together. Tony even made a couple of guest appearances as Santa.
Tony dedicated his life to honoring and caring for his mother, Maria Vasquez. He would enjoy daily breakfast and coffee at his mom’s house. He was frequently completing projects around her house ensuring that she was well looked after. Her well-being and happiness were his priority.
We would like to take the opportunity to thank Lenity and Grace Assisted Living in Caldwell, Idaho where he resided on the onset of his illness. We would also like to thank Veranda Assisted Living in Meridian, Idaho and all of the staff who took care of Antonio this past year. They treated him with dignity and respect during his time there. We appreciate the quality of care that they provided him and for accommodating our wish for Antonio.
He is survived by his mother, Maria Vasquez; daughter Celia Scarborough, grandchildren Jessie, Jaimee, and Jacob, sister Brigida (Daniel) Ozuna, nephews and nieces Daniel Jr, Samuel (Marianne), Rachel (Kyle), and Michael (Elizabeth), and great-nephews and nieces, Taylor (Nicolas), Samuel (Laura), Mackenzie, Annika, Daniel Mateo, Tristan, Lexie, Hannah, Michael Jr., and Abel, as well as great-great nephews Sawyer, Oliver and Asher. Tony was preceded in death by two great grandchildren Mollyana Susan Castro and Jac Castro.
All services will take place at Dakan funeral Chapel in Caldwell, Idaho. Viewings will be held on Sunday Feb 7th 4pm-6pm and Monday Feb 8th 12pm-1:30pm. Funeral service will be held on Monday Feb 8th at 2pm. Golf attire is suggested. Masks are required
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