Jose A Cadena

Jose was born on October 1, 1933, to Pedro and Ines Cadena in Santa Maria, Tx. After Jose graduated from Mercedes High School in 1952, he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1953-1957. Jose graduated from Mexico City College, Mexico (now University of the Americas) with a degree in Business Administration and Foreign Trade.

In 1956 Jose and Jacqueline Morrell met while attending college, married and had four children, Jose Jr (Irma), Roberto, Anne Vander Meer (Doug Lawrence) and Michael (Vicki).

Jose is predeceased by his sisters Anita, Esperanza and Ofelia. He is survived by his wife and children and his five grandchildren, Tatiana, Jose III, Rebeca, Rachel (Hector De Lira) and Sara.

Initially Jose worked as Assistant to the Business Manager of the University and purchased a home in Acopilco, DF, Mexico. After two years working for American Optical in Massachusetts, Jose went on to become the General Manager of AOMEX. After many years he returned to the Rio Grande Valley, the beloved place of his roots. He began his own business opening optical stores in the Valley and El Paso, selling and exporting all types of optical products.

Jose valued serving his community, actively participating with the Knights of Columbus in Mexico and the Junior Chamber of Commerce in Massachusetts.

Jose designed and produced very inexpensive and portable products used by surgeons and other optical professionals to provide care for people of low income, living in remote areas around the world, as well as by first responders after disasters such as hurricane Katrina.

A memorial mass will be celebrated on Wednesday December 28th at 11:00 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 2201 Martin Ave, McAllen, followed by a graveside ceremony at 12:45 PM at Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery, 2520 S Inspiration Road, Mission and a reception at 2:30 PM at Southgate Community Center, 100 W Moore Rd, Pharr.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution to the Alzheimer's Association or a charity of your choice is welcome.

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