A life well lived ... this past Saturday morning Valley Home lost a very special member of our community. Long time rancher, Tony Taro passed away peacefully at home on the ranch he loved so dearly. Tony is survived by daughter Vickie and son Donnie; he was preceded in death by his loving wife Claire. Tony was well known throughout Northern California, having served on several boards throughout the region. Locally, Tony was among the handful of people who organized the very first Oakdale Rodeo ... a fact he was extremely proud of! Another of Tony’s local contributions was his years serving on the Oakdale Irrigation Board of Directors. He served our area in many ways ... always a gentleman and always gave 100 percent to everything he did. I remember writing a few months ago about Tony in this column and I made the comment that he was an “old school” kind of man. He later shared with me how much he appreciated being referred to as “old school!” He loved his family and his friends dearly. Tony always made sure you knew how much he appreciated each and everything you did for him! He was strong willed and very opinionated, and not afraid to speak up for what he felt was right. Tony believed strongly in hard work, he felt hard work built good character. He talked often of the old days when upon occasion he would be milking in the wee hours of the morning and a fellow neighbor would be irrigating his growing rice field. The two hard working neighbors would take precious minutes from their busy days to visit and share news from each other’s family ranches. It was a wonderful way of life, a way of life shared by many ranches in our community in years past. It was a way of life Tony was proud to be a part of. Tony had a proud past, a past that had many, many wonderful stories and cherished memories. Our family feels very honored to have been a part of Tony’s huge circle of friends. This past May, Tony’s son Donnie broke his leg very badly and was in the hospital for several days, Donnie’s only concern was for his dad, Tony. So his family and neighbors came together for Tony, some stayed with Tony during the day and enjoyed his wonderful stories; breakfast, lunch, and dinner with Tony was truly special. Bud (Davy) came at night to stay, he knew exactly how to look after Tony and the ranch, having always being there for Tony, Claire, and Donnie, his being there was such a comfort for his good friend Tony. Very special longtime friend Connie made sure the pantry was always stocked, she took care of many important things for Tony and Donnie after Claire’s passing. These friends, and many more, helped along with Tony’s family to make his last few years special.

Tony deeply appreciated his family and friends. Rest well dear friend.

For information regarding services for Tony, you may contact Don Taro at 209-404-1641.

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As always you may reach me by calling (209) 985-5233 or by emailing at winniemullins51@gmail.com