Tony J. Santistevan

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 Marshal” 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.