Florentino "Tino" Diaz Fontes
born October 16, 1920 passed away March 10, 2012 surrounded by family members. Mr. Fontes was one of 16 children born to Francisco and Eduvijes Fontes. He spent his childhood in Tucson before moving to Nogales, Arizona in 1939. He married his beloved Artemisa in 1943 and began to build their family. Mr. Fontes began working for the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1942 as a switchman, eventually rising to the position of engine foreman before retiring in 1984. Mr. Fontes leaves a legacy of community service including military service in both the U.S Army and U.S. Navy during the Second World War. After returning home, he and some of his fellow veterans participated in pilot training and subsequently flew small aircraft throughout the Santa Cruz Valley. He served his beloved Nogales community as a policeman, sheriff's officer, volunteer fireman and city councilman before being elected to Mayor in 1979. He completed three terms in the mayor's office before retiring from politics in 1985. Of all of his many accomplishments, Mr. Fontes was most proud of his six children: Victor Fontes (Sherrie) of Nogales, Gene Fontes (deceased), Daniel Fontes (Kris) of Tubac, Robert Fontes (Rhonda) of Tucson and Jaime Fontes (Clarice) of Santa Paula, California. Although neither Mr. nor Mrs. Fontes had the opportunity for a higher education, they encouraged and supported each of their children to complete at least an undergraduate degree, with several of them obtaining advanced degrees as well. Mr. Fontes was well known and respected in the local community as well as around the state. Considered wise yet practical, he was approached for advice both personal and professional by friends and associates as well as family. His quiet dignity and gentle humor were an inspiration to many. Mr. Fontes is preceded in death by his wife of more than 50 years, Artemisa and his son, Eugenio. He is survived by his remaining five children and their spouses, 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren as well as his five siblings, Casilda Elias of Nogales, Luis Fontes of Kearny, Lorenzo Fontes of Sierra Vista, Laura Fontes of Carlsbad, CA and Antonio Fontes of Louisville, Kentucky. Viewing 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at ADAIR'S CARROON MORTUARY. Mass at 2:00 p.m. with the Rosary beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church. Burial to follow.