Tomas was a loving and devoted husband who leaves behind his wife of 25 years, Maribel, and their son, Felipe. He is also survived by his parents, Hilda Avila and Candido Cardoso; his sisters, Perla and Alma; and his brothers, Armando, Candido, Hector, and Alex.

After losing both of his legs, Tomas refused to give up on life. When he received his prosthetic legs and arm, he embraced each day with strength, gratitude, and determination. He often said, “Ya pasé mucho tiempo en el hospital, y ahora que me dieron esas piernas, puedo salir,” which means, “I’ve already spent so much time in the hospital, and now that they’ve given me these legs, I can finally go out.” And he truly lived by those words.

Tomas loved being outdoors—going to remates, traveling to Mexico, visiting his grandfather’s mango orchard, and returning to the work he loved most: gardening. He had a rare gift for connecting with everyone he met, and his kindness, humor, and warmth left a lasting mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him.

We are raising funds to help cover funeral expenses and to support his wife, Maribel, during this difficult time. Any contribution, no matter how small, will help ease the financial burden and give her the space to grieve.

Thank you for your love, support, and kindness during this heartbreaking time.

— The Cardoso Avila Family