TONY MATA

 

Anthony “Tony” Mata was born February 16, 1931 in Carlsbad.  He grew up to work for the city of Carlsbad; retiring as head of the building department in 1990.  Tony is well known for his dedicated community involvement.  While raising 3 children of his own, he and his wife Phyllis gladly opened their doors to countless kids and volunteered numerous hours of their time.  As a volunteer coach for eager young boys, Tony petitioned the community to install lights on Chase Little League field and was successful.  These lights are still being used today for countless ball games.  As a mentor, Tony took kids of all ages on camping trips.  Some of these kids had never been outside Carlsbad.  Tony believed all it takes is for one person to reach out to a child and say I care.  Tony did that countless times the children of Carlsbad.  Tony passed away in December 2007. His kindness will never be forgotten.