Joe was born in Yuma, AZ, on December 29, 1931. He graduated from Yuma High School in 1951, a proud "Criminal." Joe served his country with distinction in the National Guard, from which he retired. It was at a school track meet where he met the love of his life, Gloria Martinez. They married on April 20, 1952. They were married 60 years until her passing in 2012. Together, they raised 7 children, all of whom survive him: Debbie (Ray) Lagunas, Joe J. Almodova Jr., Lylia (Filiberto) Mendez, Peacha Almodova-Sasser, Michael Anthony (Cecilia) Almodova, Charleen (Pete) Pedroza, and Rocky (Wayne) Preston. They were also blessed with 18 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and countless more family and friends.
Joe's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish All Weather Roofing Company, a successful business that served many in the Yuma area for 40 years.
Beyond his professional achievements, Joe found joy in dancing with his beloved wife, Gloria, and taking pride in their beautiful yard, which he meticulously cared for. He raised peacocks. Free to roam, they would come when Joe called. He also enjoyed working with his horses, riding for pleasure and participating in parades.
In his later years, Joe’s Roladex & flip phone became essential, and he was always appreciative of those who took his calls. He cherished company and loved having visits for coffee, a drink, and just to catch up, a tradition he maintained until the end.
Joe was deeply involved in community organizations, serving as a dedicated member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and playing a pivotal role in organizing the Charros del Porvenir de Yuma, where he held various board positions. He was a pillar of the community and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
A visitation will be held at Johnson Mortuary on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a rosary at 7:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held at Immaculate Conception Church on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 10:30 AM. Immediately following the Mass, Joe will be laid to rest at Desert Lawn Memorial Park, beside his beloved Gloria.
As Joe always said, "Hasta Luego" – it's never goodbye.
