John Ambrose Tabarez, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather, peacefully passed away from heart failure at Davis Holy Cross Hospital on February 27, 2024. He was surrounded by his loving wife and children in his final moments. Born in Delta, Colorado, on December 7, 1938, to Monico and Alejandra (Gutierrez) Tabarez, John Ambrose lived a life marked by dedication to his family, service to his country, and kindness to all who knew him.
A proud patriot, John Ambrose Tabarez served in the U.S. Navy from January 3, 1956, to November 6, 1959. His naval service included deployments on the aircraft carriers U.S.S. Philippine Sea CVC 47 and U.S.S Ranger CVA 61. Beyond his active duty, he continued his commitment to service in two guard units, demonstrating a lifelong dedication to his country.
Growing up in Roy, Ogden, and Syracuse, Utah, John Ambrose Tabarez built a life rooted in family and community. He married RaNae Burnett on February 18, 1960, and together they were blessed with five children. Though they later divorced in February 1993, family remained central to John’s life. He found love again and married Tanya Sue Christensen on March 18, 1997, expanding his circle of love and family.
For 36 years, John Ambrose Tabarez dedicated his professional life to Hill Air Force Base, retiring in February of 2000. His strong work ethic and commitment were evident throughout his career. Alongside his professional life, John Ambrose was a devoted member of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church. Faith played a significant role in his life, guiding him as a prayerful, gentle, and kind man. Known for his willingness to help anyone in need, John Ambrose was a true friend to many, leaving a lasting impact on his community.
John Ambrose Tabarez is survived by his wife Tanya, and his children: Jeanenne (Kim) Chadwick, of Harrisville; Laurie (Tom) Schmidt, of Roy; Steven John Tabarez, of North Ogden; and Travis (Kelli) Tabarez, of Pleasant View. He is also lovingly remembered by his extensive posterity including 27 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. His sisters, Tina Paddock, of Taylorville, and Ruby Vargas, of San Francisco, also survive him. He was predeceased by his son, John Douglas Tabarez.
A funeral mass to celebrate the life of John Ambrose Tabarez will be held on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, located at 4050 South 3900 West, West Haven. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during visitations on Monday, March 4, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m. at Lindquist’s Syracuse Mortuary, 869 South 2000 West, and again on Tuesday from 9:00 to 10:15 a.m. at the mortuary. Interment will follow at Lindquist’s Washington Heights Memorial Park.
