Jose Refugio Servin Saldana

Jose Refugio Servin, was born on July 4th 1958, in Curimeo, Michoacan, MX. He resided there until he was 16 years old. From a very young age, Refugio was keenly aware of his family’s unfortunate financial situation. This moved him to join his dad and begin his first job doing construction work. Shortly after, he worked at a store with Don Nikko. It was here that he loved to socialize with and befriend many people from his hometown. He would often go out of his way to help those in need with their groceries.

While still 16 years old, Refugio made a life changing decision; he and his brother mustered up the courage to leave Mexico and their family and head to the United States for a better future. Upon his arrival to Santa Ana, CA, he reacquainted with a friend whom he had met at the store in Mexico. Roberto Pineda and his family held a very special place in Refugio’s heart, telling this very same story up until his last days. He continually shared how Roberto took him in and provided shelter and a job at the Railroad Tracks. Refugio saw this man as a father figure and was forever grateful to him. This act of kindness and compassion shaped and contributed to the person Refugio was and who he was to others he crossed paths with.

Refugio was known for his hard work and worked hard up until his last days. From hard outdoor labor to his wife's kitchen labor, with no doubt, he always did it with a big smile. Refugio held his Railroad Track job from the late 70’s to the mid 80’s. Through many companies he also held his role as Concrete Finisher and along the way he made several life long friends. By the early 90’s he started taking on side jobs and soon after, Servin Construction was established. Right by his side at a young age was his son Jose, who happened to be his right-hand man and best friend. Jose would ride along to jobs while Refugio taught him the ins and outs of construction. Refugio also worked closely with his brothers, nephews, friends, and anyone who needed a job.

On December 10th 1978, he married his one and only love of 44 years, Alicia Tapia. They held a big wedding in his hometown of Curimeo. Together, they had three amazing children: eldest, Alicia Servin; middle, Jose Refugio Servin; and youngest, Cynthia Maribel Servin. They later had six grandchildren: Lalito, Ariana, Adrian, Andrea, Jose, and Roman. Refugio and Alicia purchased their first home in Los Serranos in 1985 and have resided there for the past 37 years. Though there were many wonderful years, an unforeseen event occurred in August of 2005; Refugio suffered a massive heart attack and had many other serious medical complications. By God’s grace, he survived and was blessed to see many more years. This illness did not stop him nor did it slow him down; instead, he became resilient, grateful for life, and it gave him the urge to keep on giving. He continued to handle his illness with grace, never showing sadness or asking for sympathy. He directed his energy to his family and work. He even began running everyday at Ayala park. This became his new lifestyle and he added on much more along the years. He even inspired those who knew about his illness, as they couldn't believe how well and active he was and his willingness to keep on living.

Refugio retired, yet his desire to work did not stop. He took on smaller jobs for family, friends, and neighbors. Once the grandchildren started school, he took on the role of taking them to school in the mornings, while greeting and engaging in friendly conversation with his neighbors. When he did not work, he enjoyed being outside, visiting with family and friends, eating, and working on his classic truck. His 1940 truck was his baby; he had that truck for 40 plus years and took good care of it like no other. He enjoyed driving it, taking it out to the car shows, and taking the grandkids for rides.

Jose Refugio Servin will be missed very much by many. He will remain in our hearts and memories. May he rest in peace.

Jose was preceded in death by his brother Aristeo Servin ✟; his brother Jesus Servin ✟; his brother Ascension Servin ✟; his sister Juanita Servin ✟ and his brother Jorge Servin ✟.

A visitation for Jose will be held Monday, March 27, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Funeraria Del Angel Chino, 13002 South Central Ave, Chino, CA 91710. A rosary will occur Monday, March 27, 2023 at 10:30 AM. A prayer service will occur Monday, March 27, 2023 at 11:30 AM. A final resting place will occur Monday, March 27, 2023 at 1:30 PM at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 444 E. Lexington Ave., Pomona, CA 91766.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Funerariadelangelchino.com for the Servin Saldana family.