MARICOPA — John G. Rios, 84, of Maricopa died on Aug. 28, 2011, at Hospice of the Valley in Casa Grande.Rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. Thursday at J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel in Casa Grande, with visitation continuing until 8. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church by the Rev. Felix Rodriguez. Burial will be in Mountain View Cemetery.Mr. Rios was born on May 23, 1927, in Scotland, Texas, and was a son of Bernadene Rios and Betty Guzman. He served in the Army during the Korean War and was a self-employed tile layer. He was known as the "mayor of Hidden Valley," where he helped people in need. He enjoyed playing the slots at casinos, watching old western movies, especially with John Wayne, and family gatherings, where he could tell his old stories.Survivors include a son, David Rios of Maricopa; a brother, Paul Rios of Wichita Falls, Texas; two sisters, Julia Rivera of Wichita Falls and Santos Ybarra of Greeley, Colo.; a grandchild; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jane; three brothers; and five sisters.Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
