Tony Fuentes

Tony Fuentes, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his residence surrounded by his daughters on July 15, 2025, at the age of 91.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on June 13, 1934, Tony’s life was defined by love, courage, and deep devotion to his family. At just 17 years old, he made the bold decision to immigrate to the United States in pursuit of a more prosperous life; shortly after, he fell in love with his soulmate, Annie. The two were married on January 26, 1957 beginning a beautiful journey that would span nearly six decades. Their 59 years of marriage were filled with unwavering companionship and joy until Annie was called to heaven on September 23, 2016.

Together, Tony and Annie raised four daughters—Cyndi, Pam, Debbie, and Paula—instilling in them the values of hard work, compassion, and family unity. Early on in Tony and Annie’s life, they became proud business owners of King’s Cleaners on Elm Street on the Northside of Youngstown. For 35 years, they served the community with dedication, staying busy during the height of Youngstown’s bustling economy until their retirement.

Tony and Annie were the definition of best friends and soulmates. They spent nearly every moment together, finding joy in the simplest things and creating a strong family bond—most especially around the Sunday dinner table, where generations gathered to share food, laughter, and stories.

Tony was a larger-than-life presence in the lives of his seven grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren, all of whom carry cherished memories of his warmth, generosity, and stubborn spirit. In 2018, Tony returned to his beloved Buenos Aires with his children and grandchildren, where they created unforgettable memories exploring the city of his youth and reconnecting with many relatives who still live there. Though he lived most of his life in the U.S., Tony remained deeply connected to his roots and took great pride in keeping his heritage alive within his family.

Tony spoke of his family with incredible pride; however, it was truly the other way around. With just a fourth grade education, Tony was the ultimate self-taught, DIYer. To his family, he was best known as being an expert banker, personal accountant, home-remedy doctor, and life coach. A truly selfless man, Tony will be remembered most for the lives he impacted.

Tony is survived by his daughters: Cyndi Fuentes of Boardman; Pam Shelby (Paul) of Girard; and Debbie Hagan (Bob) of Austintown. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: TJ Parker (Shelby) of Austintown, Jennifer Wilson (Bryant) of Champion, Christina Stoddard of New Castle, Nina Elias (Te) of Warren, Madison Shelby of Girard, and Cammille Hagan of Austintown; as well as his great-grandchildren: Kenley, Mila, Trey, and London Parker of Austintown; Beckham, Harlow, Remi, and Nash Wilson of Champion; Tony Elias of Warren; and Camryn, Chloe, Jayden, and Desmond of New Castle.

In addition to his parents, Tony was preceded in death by his youngest daughter, Paula Stoddard; his brothers, Cacho Fuentes and Alberto Fuentes of Argentina; his sister Norma Fuentes, son-in-law, Paul Shelby; and his grandson, Mickey Stoddard.

Friends and family may call on Sunday, July 27th from 10:00am-12:00pm followed by a service at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 4303 Mahoning Ave, with a luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fitch Football Boosters in Tony’s memory.