Arturo Maldonado

Arturo M. Maldonado, 84 formerly of Solomon passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2016, in Tucson. He was born on April 12, 1931, in Morenci, AZ to Miguel and Beatrice Maldonado. Arturo also known as, "Tudy" was a caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was a native of Arizona, and was a member of the Solomon community since 1964, until his move to Tucson with his daughter in July 2013. Arturo was a veteran of the Korean War. He worked for Phelps Dodge as a Foreman for 30 years. He also enjoyed welding, working on cars, and making turquoise jewelry, which he also sold. Arturo's passion however was family, family was very important to him. One thing his family and friends will miss and remember most is his smile, he was always smiling. Arturo also loved the outdoors, he would often take his kids, and grandkids hunting, fishing, and to the river. Arturo's favorite saying was "Never mind the weather just let the wind blow." Arturo is preceded in death by his parents; Miguel and Beatrice Maldonado. His wife Emma Maldonado, brothers Raphael Maldonado, Sonny Maldonado, Pete Maldonado, and sisters Connie Ruiz, Mary Maldonado, and Veva Arrellin He is survived by his children, Rudy Maldonado, Doreen Jurado (Steve Longstreet), Arthur (Lenor) Maldonado, Chris (Christina) Maldonado, and Ronnie (Kelly) Alva, and Roland Molina; siblings, Nellie Sanchez, and Veto (Lita) Maldonado; 13 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday March 05, at Our Lady Guadalupe Catholic Church in Solomon with Rev. Robert Rodriguez as celebrant with Rosary recited at 10 a.m. A private interment will be in the Safford Cemetery at a later date. A luncheon celebrating Arturo's life will immediately follow at the Solomon American Legion Post 95.