Tony Amaral

TONY AMARAL MAR 26, 1921 - SEP 16, 2010 Tony was born in Atwater, California. He grew up in the Modesto, Salida Area, Central Valley, attending local schools. Prior to World War II, he worked as a ranch hand. Subsequently working for the Oakland/Stockton Ship Yards. From 1942 to 1945, Tony served in the Army Air Core. He served in the Asiatic, Pacific Theater, for the 596th Signal Aircraft Warning Battalion as a Plotter. He participated in four campaigns earning four invasion stars, including the Good Conduct Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one bronze star, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. He was very proud of his military service. After the war, Tony married his first wife, Mary Coito, who passed away in 1968. He worked for feed mills for a brief period, before working for Modesto Welding and Tank Works for 15 years as a Welder, Truck Driver. In 1961, Tony bought a ranch in the Escalon Area where he farmed and ran a small dairy for 17 years. He also worked seasonally for Contadina Foods, in Riverbank, for several years. In 1990, he moved to Coos Bay, Oregon with his second wife, Marylou, where he resided the last 20 years. He was a square dancer and liked Country Western Music, especially Jimmy Rogers. He loved to sing and play his guitar for family and friends. Tony is survived by his sons; Robert (Paula), Steven (Sheree). Grandchildren; Danielle, Mary, Benjamin, one great grandchild; Rylee Diane and his long time Companion, Janice Blue. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary, his second wife, Marylou. Parents; Manual and Marianna. Four brothers; Manual, Bill, Fred and Ben. Visitation will be at on Sunday, September 26th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Franklin & Downs Funeral Home, 1050 McHenry Avenue, Modesto. The Graveside Service will be held on Monday, September 27th at 11:00 am at the St. Stanislaus Catholic Cemetery, 1141 Scenic Drive, Modesto. Remembrances may be made to your favorite charity. Franklin & Downs Funeral Home are in charge of the arrangements. www.modbee.com/obituaries