Loyd Bonzi passed away at his home on February 22 with his family by his side. Loyd was the youngest son of Angelo and Beulah Bonzi. He was born August 14, 1943 in Escalon, CA.

Loyd graduated from Escalon High School in 1961. He served honorably in the Vietnam Era. Upon returning home, he worked various jobs, working for Gallo Winery until 1988. Then, he started his own business Mid Valley Canvas Repair for 15 years. After retiring from the business, it gave him time to follow his passion watching Escalon football and baseball games. You could always find him in his chair behind home plate giving the umpires a bad time and telling our pitchers to “throw them the dark one.” When he wasn’t there you could find him watching his grandkids play sports.

For 22 years you could find him in the month of December bringing joy to countless children and adults as Santa. From pictures at Mitchell’s Modesto Harley-Davidson to Oak Valley Convalescent Home, to Children’s Day Care; any place he could make someone happy.

He was preceded in death by his parents Angelo and Beulah Bonzi. He is survived by his wife of 40+ years, Lori. Children Racheal (Tommy) Edwards, Jennifer (Donald) Bonzi-Gullatt, Melodi (Chris) Ramirez, Jacob (Krystal) Bonzi, Rob (Jessica) Isaia, 11 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, Ronald Bonzi and Donald Bonzi.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, April 23 at 1 p.m. at the Escalon Sportsmans Club, with full military honors.

The Escalon (Calif.) Times

April 19, 2023