Anthony “Fat” Yaniz, former Key West Commissioner, passed away on February 10, 2026 leaving behind

a legacy that will be felt across this island for years to come.

To many, he was simply Fat. Loud. Proud. Unapologetic. He had a presence that filled any room he

walked into. But what truly defined him was how he treated people. When you spoke with him, you had

his full attention. He made you feel like you mattered. He remembered your story. He cared about your

family. When you cried, Fat cried with you. When you celebrated, he celebrated too.

Born in Cuba, Fat fought for his American dream. Through hard work, resilience, and determination, he

built a life defined by opportunity and loyalty. Alongside his brother Chiqui and one of his best friends,

Tony Mendez, he made his way to Key West to build something of their own. What started as a move

became a lifetime. Key West became home, and Fat became a true part of its fabric.

Fat first built his reputation behind the bar at The Bull and Whistle. He was part of the energy that

defined Duval Street during its most colorful years and created C.H.U.B.S. Cayo Hueso’s Unusual

Bartenders Society. Through their offbeat ideas, themed events, and larger than life presence, C.H.U.B.S

brought new life to Duval and helped shape a generation of island nightlife.

He was a natural storyteller in the purest Key West sense. Fat did not just tell stories; he carried the

island’s history in his voice. He loved the quirky characters, the old fishermen’s tales, the political

battles, the neighborhood legends, and the deep sense of community that defines this place. Time with

him meant real laughter, honest conversation, and stories you could hardly believe and would never

forget.

Through La Cucaracha Chronicles, he brought many of those stories to the stage. From smugglers’ tales

to political showdowns and island folklore, he created a space where history came alive. Fat believed

stories were meant to be shared, even the complicated ones. He never saw a microphone he did not

want in his hand, and whether he was speaking or suddenly singing you a song, you knew you were in

for something unforgettable.

His dedication to Key West went far beyond words. As a City Commissioner, he served with conviction

and never lost sight of who he was representing. He was an integral part of the Key West Veterans

Memorial, working to ensure those who served were honored properly on the island they protected.

He also played a major role in finding a permanent location for the Florida Keys SPCA in Key West. His

love for animals was personal, especially his own dogs Pucky, Humo, and Trixie. He believed a

community is measured by how it cares for its most vulnerable.

Fat championed Key West High School sports and was deeply involved in the local sports community. An

incredible softball player himself, the field was where he built lifelong friendships and where he met his

wife Becki.

He loved his devoted role working alongside the Spottswood family in helping build and preserve this

beautiful island. He considered it an honor and was deeply grateful for their constant support and trust.

He took pride in contributing to the continued growth of Key West while protecting what made it

special.

Fat worked tirelessly to strengthen the cultural and historic ties between Key West and Cuba, even

meeting with the Cuban president in New York during the United Nations in diplomatic efforts to help

rebuild ties and encourage dialogue between the two nations.

Fat worked with anyone. He believed in relationships. He believed in conversation. He believed that

community came before division. People respected him because he was real.

Family was everything to him. He leaves behind his wife Becki Balcer, his daughter Natalie “Possum”

Yaniz, and his grandson David Jameson Yaniz Esquinaldo. They were his foundation and his pride. He

also leaves behind his sister Barbara (Roger) Besu, his sister Josephine Yaniz, his niece Katie Besu (John

Ferral), and his grandnephew Alexander Perez (Michelle Ibarra.) His family was far larger than blood.

Many people were family to Fat because he chose them, stood by them, and loved them as his own. His

door was always open, and his loyalty ran deep. He was Tio Fat to many on this island and beyond.

Fat did not live small. He lived fully. He built his dream. He loved his people. He gave this island his voice,

his energy, and his heart. Key West will carry his legend for generations because men like Fat are not

replaced. They become legends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Florida Keys SPCA, the Key West High

School Baseball Boosters, or Key West Police Athletic League in honor of Fat

Celebration of Life will be on April 18, 2026. Beginning at 2PM at Williams Hall to tell your Tale of Fat,

followed by a Second Line to Hemingway Social Club for food, music, and drinks. Please wear “Yaniz” Blue (Royal Blue)

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