It is with great sadness that the Costa family announces the loss of Tony L. Costa. He passed away on May 3 at the young age of 69, riding his horse among friends and loving his way of life. His family will miss his humor, loyalty to those he loved, his cowboy heart and dedication to family. He was devoted to Rancheros Visitadores and was on its board, AQHA, Senior Gold Card, PRCA, NRCHA, USTRC, Friends of the Rodeo and a member of the Portuguese society of I.P.F.E.S.

Tony was born on Feb. 26, 1940 in the town of French Camp to parents John and Rita Costa. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, John; and his sister, Lena. He is survived by his wife, Ann; and his brother, Nelson (Liz). He also leaves behind his four children, Greg, Kelly, Stacey and Cindy, and their spouses; 11 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Tony was a native of Banta and lived in the town of Byron with his wife, Ann, for 38 years. He lived and worked on his family’s dairy farm. He later became a cattle rancher and was vice president of Vaquero Farms, Inc. His life’s passions were team roping, welding, hunting and traveling with his wife, family and friends.

A Memorial Mass was held May 9 at St. Anne Catholic Church in Byron, followed by a party at the family’s home celebrating Tony’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Anne Building Fund. A memorial scholarship has been created in Tony’s name at the Contra Costa Alameda Cattleman’s Association: 638 Enos Way, Suite B, Livermore, CA 94551.