Florentino Patina Jr.

Florentino (Tino) Patiña Jr, a beloved father, grandfather, and cherished great-grandfather, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on December 14, 2023 at the age of 77. Born on January 20, 1946 to Elvira Garza Patiña and Florentino Patiña Sr., Tino led a life rich with love, wisdom and enduring dedication to his family.

A native of Hargill Texas, Tino was a migrant worker. From 1965 to 1971, he proudly served our country with the US Army as a paratrooper in the 101st airborne division. He was proud to be a Screaming Eagle. He married Martha Cavazos on October 20, 1966, and together they built a foundation of love that lasted 57 years. Tino was a devoted parent to 1 son and 5 daughters and a pillar of strength for his extended family. Throughout the years, he learned many trades to include welding, fabrication and finally ended his career as case manager for the Washington State Migrant council.

Known for his sarcasm, quick temper, famous cooking skills, great big hugs, and love of the Dallas Cowboys, Tino touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His dedication to the preservation of Tejano Music brought joy to him and those around him. He was extremely proud of the 20 years he helped run the Pacific Northwest Tejano Music Association. His favorite part of putting on events was seeing the smiles of the people who attended. Whether sharing stories of his childhood, the love for his Grandma Gertrudes (Tulitas) or imparting words of wisdom, Tino left an indelible mark on every generation.

In his later years, Tino found immense joy in the company of his Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, laughter and invaluable life lessons.

Tino is preceded in death by his Grandmother Gertrudes Hernandez Patiña, his parents, Florentino and Elvira Patiña, his siblings, Mia Rios, Salome (Ji) Patiña, Felipa Piña, and Janie Lopez.  

He is survived by his wife, Martha Patiña, son Rene Patiña, daughters Evelia (Ed) Ludwig, Elia (Nick) Vargas, Maria (Leroy) Cardenas, Albesa (Armando) Ramos, and Zelia (David) Cook, 19 grandkids and 12 great grandkids. 

Viewing and visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sunnyside, WA. Burial will follow with Military Honors at the Outlook Cemetery, Outlook, WA. A luncheon will be provided following the burial at the St. Joseph Catholic Gym, Sunnyside, WA.

Friends and family are invited to join in commemorating the remarkable journey of a man whose legacy will forever live on in our hearts.

A special Thank You to the staff of Sunnyside Davita, Dr. Anna Madej, Dr. Elhami Hannan, the nursing staff at Kadlec Hospital and Heartlinks Hospice. 

May Florentino rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love and gratitude of those who were fortunate enough to call him family and friend.

Viewing and visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 19,2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 with Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA  Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sunnyside, WA.  Burial will follow with Military Honors at the Outlook Cemetery, Outlook, WA.  Those wishing to sign Florentino's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com    

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