John Olivarez Jr.

January 17, 1937 – May 22, 2010

John Olivarez Jr. passed away May 22, 2010 in Merced, California at the age of 73 years.

John was born and raised in Merced and a graduate of El Capitan High School Class of 1955. He joined the Army and was a paratrooper for the 82nd Airborne and a member of the Military Police in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. There is where he met his wife of 42 years, Sandra. John was committed to his family and community service. He has four children Maria, John III, Tom and Orlando. He has been a member of the Merced Elks Lodge 1240 over 30 years. He was a past Exalted Ruler, Elk of the year, and for the past 2 years the Treasurer. He loved hunting, fishing, golfing, The San Francisco Giants and 49ers. He had an unforgettable personality and would always have something to say to make you laughJ He will be truly missed by everyone he knew.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Olivarez.

He is survived by his sons, John Olivarez III, Dr. Miguel Thomas Olivarez and Orlando Olivarez; daughter, Maria Gomes; brother, David Olivarez and Raymond Olivarez; 3 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Visitation will be on Thursday, June 3, 2010 from 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 4, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Merced. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home.