Antonio "Tony" Avila

Antonio "Tony" Avila, age 72, of Toledo, OH passed away February 4, 2026 at ProMedica Flower Hospital. He was born October 1, 1953 in Monclova, OH to Saturnino and Consuelo (Viera) Avila. Tony was an accomplished Structural Engineer. He worked on many projects all over the world throughout his career with various engineering firms. Lastly, as a Senior Structural Designer with SSOE. He would always emphasize that his job never felt like work. He loved what he did and the pay was just a bonus.

Tony had a passion for music. His music career began at the age of 8 where he first learned to play drums. Shortly after, he played with Conjunto San Juan, a band with his siblings. Later, his brother Mike, taught him his first guitar chord. As a young teen, he then learned keyboard (his favorite instrument), followed by trumpet, accordian, and had an undeniable vocal talent. His music career spanned to other avenues as a singer, songwriter, and producer. He had the opportunity to perform Tejano music with legendary musicians and singers throughout the Midwest and Texas, including Grammy award-winning artists. He was very proud to have written "Ángel en el Cielo" for Stefani (Montiel) that was nominated for a Grammy in 1994. Along with being proud of writing this Grammy nominated song, he was also proud to be the opening act for Selena in Point Place/Toledo (when Selena was around 16 years old) and Saginaw, Michigan. Throughout his music career, Tony was a part of the following bands; Electra, La Fuerza, Director/Member of the Midwest Tejano Music Awards Band, Tequila Band, Grupo Dezeo, and Music Ministry in church. 

Tony was an avid traveler, frequent concertgoer, and loved spending time with his family. He was most of all a man of faith. Our family can take comfort in knowing he is at peace with the Lord. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him. A true legend is now amongst the stars.

In addition to his parents, Tony was also preceded in death by his siblings, Mario Avila, Frank Avila, Ernestina "Tina" Guardiola, Juanita Aldaco and Jessica Blanco, granddaughter, and great-granddaughter. 

He is survived by the love of his life, "La Mujer de mi Sueños" of 12 years, Irma Cortez; children, Alejandro (Erika) Avila, Angela Avila, Rachel (Balal) Berro, Mariah Lopez, Miguel Lopez, and Maritza Lopez; 23 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; and brothers, Mike (Stephanie) Avila and Robert "Bobby" Avila.

The family will receive guests, Thursday, February 12, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Newcomer SW Chapel, 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo (419-381-1900). Funeral Services will begin Friday at 11:00 a.m. at The Church on Strayer 3000 Strayer Road, Maumee, OH 43537 where the family will receive guests at 10:00 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Kidney Project at UCSF in Antonio's memory. 

To share a memory of Antonio or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.