Frank Tony Lovato

Frank Tony Lovato, (Poncho, Uncle Tony, Grandpa Red), 92, passed away Wednesday, September 19, 2018. He was born on May 11, 1926 in Cimarron, New Mexico. He is survived by his son, Anthony K. Lovato of Hemet, CA and his children, Nichols Christopher, Ashley Marie, Michael Anthony, and Amber Nicole, son, Frank Ritchie and wife, Lorella of Albuquerque; daughter, Debbie Reid of Farmington, NM, and daughter,Antoinette Garner and husband Paul of Hobbs, NM; stepchildren, Robert Morrison and wife, Sandra of Alabama and their children, Cheyenne and Cierra; Mark Sparks and wife, Eileen, and their children, Tralla, David, Jeremiah, and Courtney, and Yolanda Rodgers and husband, Gale and their children, Jeanette, Jeannean, Jollene, and Nicole; and great granddaughter, Brittaney. He was preceded in death by his wife of 20 years, Alice and granddaughter, Diane Ritchie.

Tony served in the US Navy. He was employed by the Albuquerque Police Department, Captain of the Southwest School Crossing Sections for 19 years for which he retired at age 88. His special interests were playing pool with his buddies at the "Center", and watching ALL SPORTS!!! Tony loved to also watch golf and bowling. He was a fanatic sports enthusiast for college basketball. Tony was a longtime member of Western Heights Church until 2014 and currently a member of Restoration Church where he participated in Bible Study.

A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, October 3, 2018, 9:30 a.m., at Restoration Church, 824 San Mateo Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108, please park in the back of the church. A small Coffee and Cookie Reception will follow. Graveside services will take place at 1:30 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery.