Anthony “Tony” Olivares passed peacefully at Serenity House in Santa Barbara on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020 at the age of 79, just a few days shy of his 80th birthday.

Tony was born Sept. 12, 1940 in Santa Barbara, to Ventura and Angela Olivares. He was raised in Carpinteria along with his six siblings, including his three sisters Mary, Rosie and Chon. His three brothers Silvario, Thomas and John preceded him in death.

Tony was a life-long resident of Carpinteria and graduate of Carpinteria High School in 1958. It was during this time that Tony’s passion for sports was born and nurtured. He was an all-star athlete in four sports, having lettered in football, basketball, baseball and track. He later went on to play baseball for the Santa Barbara Merchants, as well as many successful seasons of city league baseball and basketball.

After graduation, he started a position at the Carpinteria Water District. He then honed his skills in various trades before leading to a career as a drywall finisher for more than 40 years.

It was early in his career as a drywaller that he met the woman of his dreams, Dyanne, who would soon become his wife of 49 joyful years.

Those happy years were spent beginning a family, raising four children, and doing the activities together they loved the most such as sports and camping. Tony was always the life of the party and could often be found telling stories or imparting wisdom around the campfire at Bass Lake or Lake San Antonio.

Many also remember the impact Tony had on their lives as a result of being coached by him in basketball, softball and baseball. He mentored children ranging from Little League through high school for 40-plus years. He was beloved as a coach by parents and athletes alike for his passion, life lessons, fundamental teachings and dedication.

Tony is survived by his wife Dyanne; children Elizabeth, Tia, Tonya and Tony; and grandchildren Tressa, Raeanna, Ciarra, Kinsey and Hailee.

No services will be held as this time. The family thanks you for your support and prayers. A celebration of life is planned for next year.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Carpinteria Boys and Girls Club, 4849 Foothill Road, Carpinteria, CA 93013; Hospice of Santa Barbara; or aCaprinteria High Boosters Club, P.O. Box 444, Carpinteria, CA 93014.