Tomas Arenas Santamaria OAM
16/10/1937 - 7/4/2026
Obituary For Tomas Arenas Santamaria OAM
We are mourning the loss of Mr. Tomas Arenas Santamaria OAM. Loving and beloved husband to Gloria, devoted father to Tomas James, Tomas Jim, Jeffrey, George, loyal friend and pioneer volleyball coach.
Forever in our Hearts.
There will be a viewing on the evening of WEDNESDAY (15/04/2026) in the Chapel of Tribute Funeral Services at 6pm.
The Funeral Service will be held at Altona Memorial Park in the Chapel of Repose on THURSDAY (16/04/2026) commencing at 2:00pm and will be followed by a private cremation.
Following the service the family warmly invites you to stay for some light refreshments at the Altona Commemoration Centre and to continue the celebration of Tomas' life.
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Condolences
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19/04/2026
Michael Beks
Condolences to the Santa Maria family. We were so fortunate to have Tomas's strong influence in our lives, he was held with such high regard and esteem.
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16/04/2026
Natalie Cruz
Rest in peace Sir Tom, you're legacy will never be forgotten. My heartfelt condolences and prayers to the whole family 😔 🖤🤍🙏🙏
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16/04/2026
Isabel Sales
Our deepest condolences and prayers, from the family of the late Francis Santamaria Sales 🙏🏻
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16/04/2026
Alexander Lefteriotis
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16/04/2026
Liz Im
Our family was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Tomas Santamaria. Tomas and my dad, Ho Dam (Andrew) Im, shared a very special friendship that began through volleyball, and over the years it became much more than just a game. I remember the good times they had together, and it was always clear how much respect and care they had for one another. Even though we moved to a different state when I was young, Tomas's presence was always felt through those stories and memories. He was an important part of my dad's life, and for that, he will always be remembered with warmth and gratitude. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Santamaria family. Wishing you all peace, comfort, and strength during this difficult time. May Tomas rest in peace and be reunited with my dad in Heaven. - The Im Family -
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16/04/2026
Phil Borgeaud
Thank you Tomas for your wisdom, guidance and support. You were a coach for the players, challenging all those who had the good fortune to be tutored by you to strive for excellence in our endeavors.
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15/04/2026
Paula
The Master Thomas (Volleyball Coach) Rest easy my friend, love to the entire Santamaria family Thoughts and love from O'Connor/Obrien Families My big bro Steve OConnor will be waiting for you with opens arms in the afterlife .
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15/04/2026
Russell Borgeaud
Tomas was a great coach, a kind man and mentor to me (& others). I have very fond memories of the National Team tours and tournaments that he coached. He always was a positive influence on his athletes. My sincere condolences to the Santa Maria family.
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15/04/2026
Brian Minikin
Rest in peace Tomas and thank you for all the times we shared and for the knowledge and wisdom passed.
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15/04/2026
Stephen Mills
My condolences to the Santamaria Family.Tomas a legend of Volleyball and a true Australian. Steve Mills
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13/04/2026
Howard Williams
A good & courageous man. Tomas took a risk to come to Victoria and help establish the first professional Director of Coaching position in Australian Volleyball. He was a tough uncompromising coach who sought to bring out the best in everyone he met. He became a good friend to me & all who worked with him. He stayed in our home as an honoured guest from the first months of being in Australia. He later hosted my son in his home after Gloria joined him & they grew their family of budding volleyballers I regret I haven't seen him in the last couple of years and now will only have so many memories & stories to share. Sincere condolences to Gloria, the family and all who loved Tomas as I did.
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12/04/2026
Tuti Tolentino thru Junjie
Our family's condolences from the Prieto-Tolentino family. You will always be included in my prayers every night - love, Tuti
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12/04/2026
Chlebo
So sorry to hear of his passing. My thoughts go out to his family. He was one of a kind and inspired many on the volleyball court and got the best out of them. Being part of the Philippines trip that he made happen with the state team back in the 90s was a highlight. A great man.
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09/04/2026
Leni
Words seem inadequate right now. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Leni and Howard Humffray
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