Anthony “Tony” Morales passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 23, 2024, after recently being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Tony was born June 29, 1938, in Oakland, California, to parents Antonio and Mary Morales, was the youngest of six children and was the first child in his family to be born in a hospital.
Tony was about 15 years old when he got his first job working in a grocery store stocking shelves, saving up enough money to buy his first car before he got his driver’s license. After graduating from Hayward High School in 1956, he joined the Carpenters Union Local 1622 in Hayward and then completed a four-year apprenticeship, receiving his journeyman status. Over the years, he worked for numerous home builders throughout the east bay. In 1966, Tony got his contractor’s license and shortly after this he started working for himself, continuing to build in the east bay, as well as Solano County.
Tony married the love of his life, Arlene, and they had two children, Chuck and Wendy. Over the years, Tony built six homes and a cabin for his family. The homes were filled with love and laughter, where all were welcome. He enjoyed boating on the delta, spending time at the house in Lake Tahoe and traveling in his RV, along with camping trips with friends and family. Some of Tony’s favorite things were spring training, watching baseball, a good meal at home with family and he also enjoyed a new car or truck from time to time. As he got older, it was the little things that he loved; riding his mule around his ranch, visiting with friends and family and sharing his vision with all who would listen. He had the best stories and was a good businessman - known for having the cleanest job sites in Solano County. He is greatly missed by many.
Tony was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene, and son, Chuck, along with parents, in-laws, siblings and a brother-in-law. Survivors include daughter, Wendy Smaystrla (Terry); grandchildren, Nick Smaystrla (Deanna), Katie Jones (Justin), Mike Smaystrla (Jessica), Matt Morales (Mary) and Sara Morales Kent; great grandchildren, Danica Smaystrla, Westin and Brooklyn Jones and Amelia and Jonah Kent; sister and brother-in-law, Lorraine (Richard) Mudgett and numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves his beloved fur buddies, Tracer and Tucker.
Funeral service to be at McCune Garden Chapel (212 Main Street, Vacaville), on Friday, November 8, 2024, starting at 11:00 AM. All are welcome to attend a celebration of life luncheon immediately following at the Vacaville Opera House (560 E Main Street, Vacaville).
