Tony Gabaldon

Tony Gabaldon (June 3, 1930 – January 3, 1998) was a teacher and principal, who became a politician and was elected as Arizona state senator. His Mexican-American family has lived in Belen, New Mexico for hundreds of years. Senator Gabaldon represented citizens of District 2 in Arizona, which includes Flagstaff, the largest city in northern Arizona, and Navajo and Apache counties. He is the father of marine scientist-turned- best-selling time-travel author, Diana Gabaldon.

Tony Gabaldon was born in Belen, New Mexico, near Albuquerque, where his family has lived for hundreds of years. He moved to Arizona at the age of thirteen. While still a high school student in Flagstaff, he distinguished himself as an exceptional athlete, all-state quarterback, and chef. He remained an enthusiastic supporter of athletic events in the community through his later service as a teacher, coach and principal. His accomplishments earned him induction into the Flagstaff High School Hall of Fame.

Elected to the Arizona senate in 1972, Gabaldon served for 16 years, being re-elected through that period. He served in other political offices, as well as being active in civic life. He was elected as Coconino County supervisor, serving until his retirement in 1995.

Gabaldon died at his home from a heart attack on January 3, 1998 at the age of sixty-seven. He was survived by his second wife Margaret, to whom he was married for 23 years at the time of his passing; two daughters (with his first wife, Jacqueline Sykes Gabaldon, Sept. 16, 1930-July 21, 1971): bestselling author Diana J. Gabaldon, a marine scientist and best-selling author of time travel novels; and Theresa Gabaldon, a distinguished law professor; and four grandchildren.

After his death, the Arizona Senate passed a resolution celebrating the life of Tony Gabaldon, which states:

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