Tony Alvarez

Tony Alvarez, Sr. 83, of Safford, entered into rest on Sunday, June 1, 2014 at Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center. Tony was born April 20, 1931 to Perfecto Cortez Alvarez and Micaela Rivera Alvarez. Tony grew up in Bisbee, Arizona and after graduating from High School, he joined the Marine Corps and was discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant in 1952. On June 20, 1953, Tony married the love of his life Emma. Together they raised 4 children, Tony Jr., Alma, Phil, and Barbara. Tony and his family lived in Bisbee and he worked as an underground miner for Phelps Dodge Corp. When the mine closed in 1975, they moved to Safford. Tony was active in his communities serving as a member of the Bisbee Board of Education, the Bisbee Country Club, the Mt. Graham Country Club and the American Legion. Tony enjoyed many hobbies including handyman, gardening and sports, especially U of A football and basketball, the Diamondbacks and the Arizona Cardinals. He was able to meet Tiger Woods at the Accenture Match Play Tournament in Tucson. In 1988 Tony traveled to Spain in search of family and was also able to visit Africa. He is survived by his wife Emma Alvarez of Safford; sons, Tony Alvarez, Jr. (Karen)of Glendale and Phil Alvarez of Aliso Viejo, CA; daughters, Alma Newberry of Tucson, and Barbara Alvarez of Scottsdale. Tony was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Adeline, Tilli, Lodi and Sara. The Family requests that in lieu of flowers that contributions be made to The American Cancer Society. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2014 at St. Rose of Lima with military honors following by the Gila Valley Honor Guard. Rosary will be prayed at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2014 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. A reception with lunch will be held at the Mt. Graham Country Club following services. The Comfort Inn (928-348-9500) offers a bereavement rate for guests: $87.29 dbl queen room and $96.29 for single king. Please mention you are in town for the Alvarez memorial to receive the discounted rate.