Anthony Alexander Cantu of Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 17, 2022, at his home. He was 20 years old. Anthony Alexander Cantu was born on April 18, 2002, in Grand Blanc, Michigan, to Melissa Anna Cantu and Julian Luciano Olivarez. He was a 2020 graduate of Carrollton High School and proudly played on the baseball team as a pitcher and second baseman. He was of the Catholic Faith and attended St. Joseph Catholic Church. Anthony was competitive and excelled as a gamer. His little piece of heaven was to be at one with nature and loved spending time outdoors. He was kind, compassionate, and volunteered his time kayaking and fishing with the Grand Blanc Chapter of Heroes on the Water, a veteran’s organization that helps veterans heal in a peaceful environment. Above all, Anthony loved and cherished his family, especially his dog, Chance. He will forever be remembered for his beautiful smile and natural charm, his innate ability to connect with all people through his outgoing spirit, and for truly living a remarkable life filled with love.

Surviving are his mother, Melissa Anna Olivarez of Saginaw; father, Julian Luciano Olivarez of Saginaw; two dear brothers: Nicolas Olivarez of Saginaw; Julian “Bubba” Olivarez, Jr. of Saginaw; grandparents: Andrew and Ruby DeLaCruz of Saginaw; Gloria Olivarez of Saginaw; Miguel (Leo) Cantu of Texas; his beloved dog, Chance; six aunts: Rita (Eric) Nugent of FL; Maria Cantu of Pontiac; Lydia Cantu of Pontiac; Angela (Valerie) Cantu of Waterford; Jennifer (Jarrett) Smith of West Bloomfield; Andrea DeLaCruz of Waterford; godfather and uncle, Greg Garcia of Pontiac; eight cousins; and special friend, Italia LaBruyere. Also surviving are many extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents: Mary Rosario, Maria and Carlos Cantu; two cousins: Ashton Peterson and Shaun Weeden.

A Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 22, 2022, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 910 N. Sixth Ave. Rev. Fr. Francis Voris OFM Cap will officiate. Honoring Anthony’s wishes cremation will follow the service. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the W. L. Case & Company, 4480 Mackinaw Road on Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Vigil Service will take place at 7:00 p.m. Sunday evening. Anthony will lie in state at the church on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Mass. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Heroes on the Water – Grand Blanc. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church, or through www.casefuneralhome.com.