Tommy Villegas

Thomas Abel Villegas passed away unexpectedly November 23, 2011 while fishing at Strawberry Reservoir. He was born March 7, 1945 in Durango, Mexico to Genovevo and Valentina Villegas. He attended University High School in Los Angeles, CA. At the age of 17 he became the sole supporter of his mother and four younger siblings. On October 21, 1967 he married the love of his life, Gena Rodriguez at St. Mark's Catholic Church in Venice, CA.

Tommy was able to move his new family to Santaquin so that he could give a better life to his children and to be close the "beautiful mountains". He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and a friend to everyone he met. His constant message to his grandchildren was that he "loved them and always wanted a place for them to come home to".

Tommy worked at Geneva Steel, then became a self-employed landscaper. He enjoyed working outdoors and being his own boss. He loved fishing, hunting and being with his family. Tommy was well know throughout the entire Santaquin community. He was always willing to help others and lend a hand to those in need.

Tommy was preceded in death by an infant son, his parents, a sister and a brother. He is survived by his wife, Gena; his children, Maria (Joe) Tafolla, Maggie (Curt) Isham, Tom (Amy) Villegas, Monica (Quinn) Davis; his grandchildren: Rosemary, Joshua M., Joshua I., Nathan, Ryan, Megan, Madison, Alyssa, Carly and Nik. He is also survived by 7 siblings.

The Villegas family would like to thank all our friends and family for their love and support throughout this very difficult time. We will always remember and cherish Tommy's love, his zest for life, and his commitment to family and friends. To our special husband, father and grandfather - We will always love and remember you.

All family and friends are cordially invited to a Rosary service to be held at Holladay-Brown Funeral Home, 66 South 300 East, Santaquin on Thursday, Dec. 1st at 6:00 pm followed by a Remembrance Celebration from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Funeral services will be held at San Andres Catholic Church, 315 East 100 North, Payson on Friday, Dec. 2nd at 11:00 am.