Edward Anthony Amador

Ed was born to Antone and Mary and spent his years growing up on their dairy farm in Modesto, where his strong work ethic first developed. He graduated from Ceres High School in 1956.

On December 21, 1957, Ed married the love of his life, Patricia Thomas, and they were devoted to each other for over 62 years. In the first four years of their marriage, they welcomed three boys into their family: Eddie, Mark, and Steve.

Ed's love of cars and racing started at a young age. He sold six cows to buy a 1957 Chevy Bel Air to cruise McHenry and drag race. Unfortunately 2 weeks later the motor blew. Ed then sold the remaining two cows to buy a corvette crate motor to replace it. In 1964, Ed began racing on oval tracks, and in 1966 he was named "Rookie of the Year." During his racing career, Ed raced modified, outlaw stock cars, Nascar Southwest Tour, dirt, and pavement sprint cars winning many races and championships. At the age of 75, he set the second-fastest time at Madera Speedway.

Although racing was a love of Ed's, his family was his greatest love. Involving himself in things his sons enjoyed was important to Ed, including serving as a 4-H & FFA leader and participating in Ceres Athletics Boosters Club. Patricia and Ed also enjoyed boating greatly. Ed enjoyed fishing, and Patt loved being out on the boat. They also loved traveling.

Ed started his work career at Gallo Glass shortly after Gallo opened in Modesto. The work ethic that was prevalent throughout Ed's life allowed him to move up within the company. He started sweeping floors and retired almost 40 years later as Plant Superintendent. Even after retiring, Ed did consulting for Gallo and earned the nickname, ”Mr. Glass." While working at Gallo, Ed also farmed and involved his sons in a hay service business. Ed also was on Gallo golf and bowling teams during his career at Gallo. After Retirement and more recently Ed was an Almond Farmer.

Ed was a member, Vice President, President, and Past President of the Modesto Portuguese Pentecostal Association. He was also a Lions Club Member, member of Blue Diamond, and union member of the Glass Blowers Association. Ed also helped form a racing club—Northern California Modified Association.

Ed enjoyed and lived his life to the fullest. When Ed's grandchildren and, more recently, his great-grandchildren came along, he took great joy in them. During the holidays, he enjoyed handing out gifts one at a time as each child had their time in the limelight. Ed would do anything for his friends and family and will be greatly missed by all that loved him.

Ed is survived by his wife of 62 years, Patricia Amador, and his sons—Eddie (Carlene), Mark (Valerie), and Steve (Clarice). He is also survived by his eight grandchildren—Josh, Tiffany, Ashley, Alex, Tony, Tylor, Nick & Shelby, nine great-grandchildren, two goddaughters-Laura and Joann and aunt Barbra.

Ed was preceded in death and now rejoined with his mother & father, Antone & Mary Amador, his brother, John Amador, his sister, Marie Gomes, brother-in-law, John Gomes, and nephew, John Amador.

In lieu of flowers donation may be made to:

The Alzheimers Association

225 N. Michigan Ave. FL.17

Chicago, IL 60601

Westport fire Association

5160 S. Carpenter Rd.

Modesto, CA 95353