Antonio “Tony” Escamilla Sanchez passed away peacefully at the age of 92 in his home in Rancho Mirage, California, on July 19, 2025, at 11:19 PM. He took his final breath surrounded by his loving family.
Tony is survived by his beloved wife, Rachel, and their 11 children: Irene, Rosie, Lucy, Lupe, Margo, Tony, Sid, Liz, Christina, Raquel, Jesse and preceded in death by his daughter Barbara. He also leaves behind 30 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved deeply. Tony was born on February 22, 1933, in León, Guanajuato, Mexico, to Maria Teresa and Estanisea “Stanley” Sanchez. He had one sibling, a younger brother who sadly passed away at the age of three, leaving Tony as an only child. From an early age, Tony demonstrated a strong work ethic and a business-minded spirit. He offered services and sold goods to help support his parents. After his father’s passing during Tony’s teenage years, he left home in search of a better life. He eventually arrived in Yuba City, California, where he worked as a migrant farm laborer and in a clothing store. It was there that he met the love of his life, Rachel Partida. Determined to succeed, Tony learned English and became a proud U.S. citizen. Shortly after, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served honorably for two years in Europe. Upon his return, he married Rachel and the couple settled in Thousand Palms, California, where they began building a family together. Tony worked at The Desert Sun newspaper on the printing presses for 10 years. He later started his own pool and gardening business, which he ran successfully for 20 years. Even into his late 60s, Tony continued working, holding a maintenance position at Agua Caliente Casino. His tireless work ethic, integrity, and devotion to his family and faith defined his character. Seven years ago, Tony was diagnosed with stage four Alzheimer’s disease. As his health declined, his family came together to lovingly care for him. Throughout his life and even in his final years, Tony remained an inspiration—teaching all who knew him about the importance of hard work, family, faith, and living life to the fullest. He often said, “Life is an adventure.” And what an incredible adventure he had. Antonio “Tony” Sanchez will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. We love you, Dad.
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