Anthony Valdez

Born on November 10, 1970, in Phoenix, Tony grew up in a close-knit family where the value of hard work and love of the outdoors was instilled in him early. Tony was the youngest child of Edward and Priscilla Valdez. Growing up, Tony enjoyed riding his three-wheeler around the neighborhood and spending time with his siblings and friends. Much of Tony’s youth was spent going on family hunting trips, camping, fishing, and traveling in the family camper.

Tony graduated from Cortez High School in 1989 and continued his education at Glendale Community College. Tony was kind like his father and generous like his mother. As an adult, Tony shared his love of camping and fishing with his friends. He found great joy taking friends out of the city for the first time to places such as Sedona.

Tony worked as a stagehand for almost 30 years. He was fond of his work and the friendships he made along the way. He enjoyed the flexibility that his job allowed to help care for his aging parents. Tony visited his parents often to talk and help around the house. As his parent’s health declined, he saw them daily.

Tony loved spending time outdoors. Some of his favorite memories include hunting with his father, brothers, uncles, cousins, and nephews on their annual hunting trips. They hunted deer and elk whenever they got drawn. Some years, Tony brought friends along to experience cooking over the fire and sleeping under the stars. He enjoyed spending time up north, camping and fishing in in West Fork, riding ATVs in the desert, and trips down to Mexico. His nieces and nephews recall Tony shooting fireworks off the beach in Rocky Point, brining pies from Rock Springs Café to Thanksgiving, and making sure there were always tamales at Christmas. Tony was generous and always willing to help out when he could.

Anthony is survived by his brother Edward Jr., sister Cynthia, five nieces and nephews, and ten great nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents Edward and Priscilla Valdez and brother Lucas “Marty” Valdez.

His family was his anchor, and he cherished the time spent with his loved ones. His warmth, humor, and loyalty will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Tony’s love for nature and his deep bond with family will never be forgotten. He taught us all the value of the simple things in life and the peace that comes from being in the great outdoors.