Joseph Tonascia, 85 of Santa Maria, was taken from us suddenly on Monday, January 29, 2007. He was born on May 27, 1921 to Giosafatte and Sila Tonascia on the Ranchita Ranch, above Lopez Lake. Joseph lived the life of a real cowboy, growing up on a working dairy while attending grammar school in Santa Maria, and high school in SLO. Joseph was a cattleman all of his life with a special love of animals and ranch life.
Dairy and cattlemen in SLO and Santa Maria will miss a real COWBOY who loved his wife, children, grandchildren and friends. Joseph was a compassionate man with a big heart, loved animals and took pride in helping animals that others felt had no chance. Joseph was a charter member of the Italian Catholic Federation, Elks Lodge #1538, Santa Barbara County Farm Bureau, Santa Maria Valley Dairyman’s Association, and a Santa Maria Indians supporter.
There was nothing that he would not do for his family and dear friends. His biggest pride in life was watching his children in their pursuits in life, and his grandchildren growing up playing sports and raising livestock.
Joseph loved baseball, woodworking, golf and gardening.
Joseph is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Olivia, his four children, Joseph (Karen) Tonascia of Hollister, Louise Tonascia of Santa Maria, David (Mari) Tonascia of Arroyo Grande and Robert (Tina) Tonascia of Nipomo and his beloved grandchildren, Emily, Joey, Jacob, Toby, Katie, Joshua, John, Kayla and Natalie. He is also survived by his sisters Nida Vega, Marjorie George and brother Edward Tonascia of Santa Maria, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to give thanks to the doctors and staff at the Marian Medical Center CCU Department.
Viewing will take place on Wednesday, January 31, 2007, at 5:00 P. M., in the Chapel of the Dudley-Hoffman Mortuary with a Vigil Service at 6:00
P. M. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2007, at 12:00 noon at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church with Reverend Rizalino Carranza officiating. Burial will follow at the Santa Maria Cemetery, with the Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Dudley-Hoffman Mortuary and Crematory.
