Tony Maddalena
Tony Maddalena was born on February 20, 1954 in Marysville, Calif., to Louie and Hazel (Adams) Maddalena. In 1971, he graduated from Marysville High School. A few years later, he met the love of his life, Cindy York, who he married in Yuba City on January 10, 1976.
Tony worked his entire life as a rancher. He spent many years working with his father on one of the prettiest ranches in Sierra Valley. When Louie retired, Tony and his brother Steve became partners and they ran the Maddalena Ranch together. Over time, the ranch evolved and eventually became Tony and Cindy’s own business.
Throughout his life, Tony was an active community member and was a leader in many organizations. He loved team roping and served as the treasurer and director of the Sierra Valley Roping Club for several years and was the president in 1981, 1982, and 1997.
Tony was passionate about ranching and he took pride in his cattle’s genetics and performance. He was active in the Plumas-Sierra Cattlemen’s Association and served as president and director. Tony not only took pride in his cattle, but he also cherished the land they grazed. While serving on the Sierra County Planning Commission, Tony advocated for our rural lifestyles and he felt it was important to preserve agricultural opportunities for future generations.
Tony loved sports and was a devoted fan of the Loyalton High School athletic program. Over the years, he coached his son and daughter in baseball and softball. Tony attended every game he possibly could and he loved to be on the sidelines cheering on the players.
Tony also loved to travel and was not afraid of a good adventure. He was the kind of person who could make friends wherever he went. Tony’s travels took him all over the world. From the Amish country of the Northeast to the balconies of Tahiti, Tony saw it all.
He was a modest and very intelligent man. It didn’t matter if he was coaching a simple softball practice or preparing for a bull sale, Tony always did his research. He was patient and valued preparation in all of his endeavors. Not only was he patient, he was honest. He appreciated a healthy debate, even if he disagreed with you.
Tony cared deeply about his family and always had a loving soul. Tony is survived by his wife Cindy, his son Sam (Holly), his daughter Annie (Joe), his brother Robert (Marsha), and his four grandchildren Payton, Chesley, Hazel and Maddie. He is preceded in death by his parents, Louie and Hazel, stepmother Nadine, sister Jean, and brothers Bud and Steve.
His services were held November 17 at the Sierra Valley Grange. The family would like to thank the Sierra Valley Roping Club, the Plumas-Sierra Cattlemen’s and Cattlewomen’s Associations, Paul Roen and his family, and many others for providing and serving the food and beverages. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Sierra Valley Roping Club Scholarship Fund or the Plumas-Sierra Cattlemen’s Scholarship Fund.