Jose A. Saiz

Jose Antonio “Tony” Saiz, left his earthly constraints on 10 January 2021. Tony came into this world on 19 November 1926, 20 minutes past 2:00 PM, in Belen, New Mexico, to Ysabel Fajardo Saiz and Jose Manuel Saiz; he was the fourth of nine children. His childhood home was a constant presence in his life, often simply referred to as "The Ranch"; he treasured visits with his family, helping brand cattle, and passing down his New Mexican culture. Virginia Gutierrez and Tony Saiz were married 30 August 1948, and welcomed eight children into this world; they have been married for seventy-two years. A veteran of World War II, he served his country as a member of the Army, Technician Fifth Grade, 340th Engineers Construction Battalion. Tony worked as a Heavy Mobile Equipment Operator at Marine Corps Logistic Base Barstow for thirty-three years, retiring in 1981. His passions included faithfully playing solitaire with the greatest opponent, camping and hunting in the mountains of the Mojave National Preserve, representing his membership to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) of Barstow with duty and poise every Veterans and Memorial Day, cheering on and watching his Dodgers win the 2020 World Series, attending rodeos when they came through town, indulging in cookies, fruit cake, and green chile, tinkering with his 1977 GMC Sierra Classic, dancing endlessly with his wife Virginia, and spending time with his family at his home, hosting countless holiday and birthday gatherings. Tony could always be found keeping his residence well maintained, grass trimmed, and his rusty relics in his yard to his liking; working gloves, his ever present companion.

Tony used to say, “Every man’s head is his own world”; his world was filled with family, duty, devotion, and love. This world has felt the impact and the imprint Tony has left and will forever be better because of having been blessed with his presence.

Tony was preceded in death by his daughter Lupe Saiz Marquez; son Jose “Tony” Saiz Jr.; grandson Antonio Donald Saiz; brothers Isidro Saiz (Millie), Boni Saiz, Pat Saiz; and sister Andrea Vallejos (Manfor). He is survived by his spouse Virginia Saiz of Barstow; children Vivian Saiz of Rancho Cucamonga, E. Gloria Saiz, Gilbert Saiz (Julia), John Saiz (Anna), Patricia Saiz Maestas (Ray Barela), and Anita Luna (Michael), all of Barstow. He is also survived by his grandchildren Jesus “Chuey'' Marquez, Fernando Saiz, Orlando Saiz, Marlene Saiz, Martin Saiz, Anthony Saiz, Gilbert Saiz Jr., Ben Saiz, Stephanie Saiz-Herrera, John Saiz Jr., Amy Saiz, Alex Saiz, Marissa Maestas, Isaac Luna, Vincent Luna, Nicholas Luna, Jose “Tony” Saiz III, Michelle Eid, Michael Elston; fifteen great grandchildren; brothers Eddie Saiz of Belen, Pascual Saiz (Epigmenia), Silfredo Saiz (Lucia), Manuel Saiz (Betty), all of Barstow; and countless nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A viewing will be held Wednesday 3 February 2021, between the hours of 2-4 PM at Meads Mortuary. A Rosary will be held Thursday 4 February 2021 at 10:30 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church; Mass will follow at 11:30 AM, followed by burial at Mt. View Memorial Park.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.meadcares.com for the Saiz family.