Tomas was born on December 29, 1940, in San Elizario, Texas. He grew up in the historical town of San Eli with his mother Carmen Oporto, two brothers Francsico (Kiko) and Roberto (Beto) and sister Maria (Mary). He was a loving son, brother and friend. Tomas was selfless with his time and commitment in helping to provide for his family. One of the things he enjoyed was fishing with his Uncle Francisco Chavez.
Beyond the love he had for his mother and siblings, he worked at a meat packing plant and that is where he met our beautiful mother, Maria Antonieta Rios Blanco. They married on November 19, 1966, and they had four children, Rebeca, Deborah, Sandra and David. He later worked for Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company for many years and in 1978, was offered an opportunity to work for General Electric in Gillette, Wyoming. He took his family to the shivering cold tundra of Wyoming for us to explore. He worked for GE as an electrical mechanic, which serviced the surrounding coal mines. His passion for working on motors didn’t end there. In his spare time, he worked on cars, serviced T.V.s, VCRs, radios … you name it, he could fix it. He was known in the community for someone they could go to and trust to get things done. Tomas is the one who made home delivery by UPS cool. You knew dad had a project when you would hear the vibrating sound of the UPS truck coming down our street to drop off parts on the weekly. We truly appreciated his talents, anytime one of our bracelets, necklaces or numerous household items would break, he would tell us to bring it over to solder and repair. There was nothing he couldn’t do and if he didn’t know how, he would go to the library and find a book that would teach him. Spending hours reading and studying late at night was common for him. He was educated and certified in many trades. He set the example for his children to pursue their goals and careers.
Not only did Tomas have a strong work ethic, but he was also a kid at heart. He would be the first to dig out the Christmas decorations for the holidays and put up all the lights. The lights had to be colorful, bright and he made sure each individual light worked. Our dad was also the first one up on Christmas morning … 5:00 a.m. was not early enough. He would walk around to each and every room with a red battery-operated bell that played, “Jingle Bells” in a high pitch sound. That unforgettable cherished memory has been engraved into our minds forever. He couldn’t wait for all his children to wake up so he could see us open our gifts.
Growing up, each child had their own interests that he supported by attending their matches, games, competitions and performances. His encouraging words of never quitting or giving up has carried his children throughout their lives.
After his children left home Tomas spent a few years in Bellingham, Washington and worked for Alpha Technologies and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He found great joy in seeing them grow and took part in their mischievous ways, especially when it came to July 4th. Tomas wanted to participate in the festivities by making sure the fireworks were the biggest and loudest they could find.
He later retired to Spanish Fork, Utah where he was able to be part of the lives of more grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Tomas would spend countless hours playing games, cards, puzzles, all while sharing endless amounts of laughter.
Family has always been Tomas’ priority along with loyalty, integrity, a strong work ethic and selflessness and his willingness to always help anyone who is struggling or in need. He was always first to extend his hand and jump right in.
Tomas Oporto’s trademarks carried by his smile, charm, sarcasm and playfulness will be dearly missed. Tomas’ endless love of Mariachi music, parades and holiday fiestas are his legacy that will live on through anyone who knew him. Lead by his example we will honor him in all of his amazing ways, and we know there will come a time when we will be reunited.
Tomas Oporto was preceded in death by his mother, Carmen Oporto and brother, Francisco Oporto. He is survived by Maria Antonieta Oporto, his children, Rebeca Williams (Johnny), Deborah Bradford (Kelly), Sandra Jones (Brian), David Oporto (Terra), 10 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, his brother, Roberto Oporto, sister Maria Alarcon Oporto, many nieces, nephews and other extended family.
