Anthony Sanchez DeFuentes
1926-2015

Anthony Sanchez DeFuentes passed away on October 19, 2015 at his home in Oak Harbor, WA. He was 87 years old. Tony was born on November 7, 1926 and raised in Rocklin, CA. In 1942, prior to his 17th birthday, he enlisted in the U.S Navy. Tony served in the Navy for over 37 years, reaching the rank of E-8 as an Air Traffic Control Chief Sergeant (ACCS). During his military service, Tony received the Viet-Nam service medal and the Republic of Viet-Nam medal, serving on many ships including the USS Lexington and the USS Constellation.

Upon his retirement in September 1979 as an active serviceman, Tony continued to work as a civilian air traffic controller for 20 years in the tower of Whidbey Island Naval Air Station’s Ault Field.

Tony and his wife Lorrene chose beautiful Oak Harbor as their place of residence in 1960. Tony and Lorrene were happily married for 60+ years. Tony lost the love of his life in 2002 when Lorrene passed away.

Tony was born to his father, Anthony Sanchez DeFuentes and his mother, Ruby Snowden. He had two sisters, Dr. Nona Grace Sall (of Sacramento) and Frances Anne Elster (deceased). Tony was uncle to Toni Lee Sall, Donald L. “Skip” Sall, Ross Edward Sall, Michael Elster, Nick Elster, and Robert Elster.
Tony enjoyed fishing, camping and the outdoors. He was an avid golfer and bowler. Each season he would root for his favorite teams, top amongst them, the Seattle Mariners and Seahawks.

Tony was a humble, loving and generous man. He led a simple life understanding the greatest joys in life were found with others. He remains an example for all.
He will be greatly missed by family and his many friends from the Navy and the air traffic control tower.

A celebration of Tony’s life will be held on November 19, 2016 at the Wallin Funeral Home in Oak Harbor, WA. All his friends and family are welcome to attend and celebrate this hero’s life.