VELIZ, Anthony H. (Tony)

Anthony (Tony) H. Veliz May 31, 1943 - February 11, 2011 Beloved husband, brother, uncle and friend left us suddenly after a brief illness. He leaves behind his wife, Cecilia Miranda-Veliz; his brother, Gilbert Veliz (Bertie); nieces and nephews, Roxanne Veliz-Valenzuela (Edgar); Marisa Kleiman (Jeramy); David Veliz (Kendra); Michael Veliz and Vanessa Veliz-Perez (Ray), and nine grand nieces and nephews: and his step-daughter, Clarissa Bonfitlio. He also leaves behind his grand nephews, Austin and Anthony Navarro, who held a special place in his heart. Tony's extended family included aunts, uncles, cousins and several brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews who esteemed him dearly. He is also survived by his life-long family friends, Johnny Flores and Ruben Chavez. Tony had many treasured friends, among them John and Donna Guyader; the "vatos" who met at the Rincon Market every Saturday for coffee and his special buddies from the Salpointe Class of 1961. In high school, Tony was a football hero who captured titles such as "the city's best center", "All City Honor Team", and "Arizona AA All State Center" in 1958, 1959. and 1960. He was enormously proud to be inducted into the Salpointe Catholic High School Sports Hall of Fame in 1999. Tony taught Spanish and Social Studies, and also coached football at various local high schools and in East Moline, IL. In his retirement, he substituted at Tucson High School. Tony was fiercely loyal to all his family and friends. He was strong, principled, and he placed a high value on respect. His incredible sense of humor and his endless jokes will be sorely missed. A celebration of his life will be held at his family residence on Saturday, February 26, 2011, from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be private. Arrangements by DESERT ROSE CREMATION & BURIAL.