Tony Santistevan Obituary

Tony J. Santistevan, lifetime resident of Ignacio, Colorado passed away peacefully on May 12, 2023 at the age of 86. Tony was born on June 12, 1936, in Ignacio, Colorado. He is preceded in death by his parents Benerita & Manuel G. Santistevan, brothers Manuel & Joe Santistevan and son Chris Santistevan and Dian Santistevan.

Tony graduated from Ignacio High School in 1955. Tony was a simple man, "a straight shooter" that had people's respect, he took care of his family, his land and had a great respect for the community. He respected his roots in Ignacio and that showed by his diligent work at his childhood home. Tony worked for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe until 1983, he had a great respect for all his employees and coworkers. After his retirement he could not stay idle and began a second career with the Bureau of Indian Affairs for several years. Tony was a proud man who liked to do everything on his own. He enjoyed spending time with his family working in his gardens, listening to music and he taught his family the beauty of the area's natural resources. He was a traditional man who liked to keep good things alive, he made a delicious posole every year at New Year's and took great pride in planting apple trees that will last for generations. He was a hunter, a fisherman, a bowler and a pool shark. He enjoyed watching his granddaughter Beth play softball and loved to watch the Colorado Rockies. His favorite pastime is getting in his car and taking a "cruise" through the streets of Ignacio. Playfully referred to as the "Grand Marshall" because of the line of cars that followed him down the road.

He is survived by his wife Mary of 65 years; sister Elsie Fernandez of Phoenix, AZ; children, Robert Santistevan, Arnold Santistevan, & Calla Moser; grandchildren, Sara & Daniel Santistevan, Beth & Sydney Santistevan, Crystal Ivey & Brett Santistevan, Jonathan and Jeremiah Williams, five great grandchildren; and numerous nieces & nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Ignatius Catholic Church on Monday, May 22, 2023 at 10:00 AM, followed by a burial at Ignacio West Cemetery.