Jose Antonio Mendoza

Jose Mendoza, a devoted father, beloved partner, son, brother, uncle, and friend, entered eternal rest peacefully in his sleep at home in Duarte, California on July 11, 2025, surrounded by love and his partner at his side. He was 55 years old.

Born on October 11, 1969, in Los Angeles, California, Jose lived a life marked by deep faith, strong values, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and community. He is survived by his cherished children, Joseph and Faith, and their mother, Joanna; his long-time devoted partner, Rubi; his loving parents, Esther and Jose Sr.; siblings Fernando, Sandra, Eric, and Mario; his adored nephew Vincent and nieces Ava and Ella; and his beloved fur babies, Nero and Bella. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who were touched by his generous heart, infectious laughter, and uplifting spirit.

Jose was a man rooted in faith. Raised Catholic, he deeply respected the traditions of his upbringing while remaining open to learning from and appreciating other beliefs. He found inspiration in scripture, particularly the story of David and Goliath, which mirrored his lifelong admiration for courage, resilience, and the triumph of the underdog. Whether attending Catholic mass or sitting in a pew at Calvary Chapel on a Sunday morning, Jose embraced his spiritual life with both reverence and an open mind.

He was the life of the party, a natural host whose laughter could light up a room. Jose cherished family gatherings, where he was often the one to bring games like corn hole, horse shoe or plan a competitive family game night—always eager to spark joy, connection, and a little friendly rivalry.

A true music lover, Jose had a vast appreciation for all genres. Fridays were sacred—he’d excitedly update his iTunes playlist with the latest new releases. His romantic soul gravitated toward R&B and Latin love ballads, and he could often be found dancing to bachata or electronic music or singing along to a heartfelt Christian song. Music was his sanctuary, his joy, and often his way of expressing what words could not.

Jose was also an avid sports enthusiast. In his youth, he played soccer, football, and baseball. As an adult, he continued to stay active with golf, tennis, cycling, and pick-up basketball games with friends and family. He found meaning and metaphor in the discipline and grit of athletes and loved the raw, unscripted nature of the games he watched. Sports weren’t just entertainment—they were a reflection of life’s challenges and triumphs.

A proud graduate of Lampson Elementary, one of his fondest childhood memories was winning the 5th and 6th-grade spelling bee—a moment that sparked a lifelong pursuit of excellence. That same year, his determination to excel in the Presidential Physical Fitness Test led to an all-in effort that left him with torn triceps—but never a broken spirit. That grit and determination stayed with him throughout his life.

Jose began working at the young age of 11, pushing a lawnmower door to door and offering to cut neighbors’ grass. That early entrepreneurial spirit set the foundation for a self-made, highly accomplished career in leadership and operations management. He worked tirelessly and rose through the ranks in every role he took on.

But of all his accomplishments, the greatest achievement of Jose’s life was being a father. It was his driving force and deepest purpose. He loved his children with a fierce and unwavering devotion, and everything he did—from the late nights at work to the values he upheld—was rooted in providing, protecting, and preparing a better life for them.

To know Jose was to know unwavering loyalty, quiet strength, and a generous heart. He believed in humility, in second chances, in learning from life’s lessons, and in holding onto hope, no matter the odds. He had a bleeding heart for those facing challenging times and always found ways to assist those in need—whether in small gestures or grand efforts, his compassion never wavered. He will be remembered for his hugs, his deep conversations, his ability to make anyone feel seen, and the love he gave so freely to those he held close.

His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his light lives on in the stories we tell, the memories we hold, and the love he planted in all of us.

A private memorial service will be held in honor of Jose’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a moment to share a memory, say a prayer, or simply dance to a song that reminds you of him. That would make him smile.

“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.”

‭‭James 3:13

Memorial service will be held at Fairhaven Memorial Park Mortuary, in the Waverly Chapel, located at 1702 Fairhaven Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705. The service is scheduled for August 2, 2025, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

Following the memorial service, a graveside service will take place at Fairhaven Memorial Park, in the Garden of Peace, at the same address. This service is scheduled for August 2, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.