Joaquin Domingo Arebalo

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Joaquin D. Arebalo on March 13th, 2025. Joaquin's courageous journey came to a peaceful end as he sought to rejoin his family in love. He longed to be reunited with his beloved wife, Wanda. Joaquin's life was a testament to his roles as a loving son, father, brother, husband, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, friend, mentor, and guiding light to everyone he touched.

Joaquin’s life began in Pozo, Ca. on June 10th, 1934. He would become the oldest of seven children to the late Virginia (Vaca) and Domingo Arebalo. Joaquin spent his entire life in San Luis Obispo County, where he earned a reputation as a compassionate and honest individual with strong moral principles and impeccable integrity. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, never hesitating to assist those in need. His family was of paramount importance to him and he considered everyone who knew him to be a part of his extended family.

Joaquin's life took a profound turn at 17 when he fell in love with Wanda (Murphree), his lifelong partner. Their love was unbreakable, and they sealed their commitment with marriage on June 1st, 1956. Together they welcomed Debora, David, Dennette, Diane, and Danny into their family over the next six years. Joaquin and Wanda navigated a flurry of new careers and homes, eventually putting down roots in Templeton Ca., where they would live together for the next 63 years.

Joaquin was a Construction Laborer for the Laborers International Union of North America, Local #220. In 1990, he made the decision to buy a Car Hauler and become a self-employed Cat Hauler driver. Owner and operator of “Joaquin’s Toes”, a career path he maintained until his retirement in 2014, at which time he handed over the business to his brother Dennis.

Joaquin’s passion was old cars. His enthusiasm for classic cars was evident in his love for driving, exhibiting, and building them. He and Wanda were dedicated members of the Golden State Car Club, regularly showcasing their 1929 T-Bucket and 1930 Model-A, The Blue Angel, at car exhibitions and accumulating several awards. On any given day, Joaquin could be seen cruising in his self-built T-bucket, characterized by his signature blue bandana and a cigar in his mouth. He was also engaged in constructing a Rat-Rod Pick-up truck, eagerly anticipating its completion to further indulge his passion for cruising.

Joaquin is predeceased by his parents Virginia and Domingo, his brother Henry Arebalo of Columbus, Ohio, his sister Betty Plumm of Templeton, the love of his life Wanda, and his grandson Ryan Thompson of Independence, Oregon.

Joaquin’s survivors include his five children, Debora (Bruce) Derr of Elk Grove, David (Patty) Arebalo of Atascadero, Dennette Arebalo of Independence, Oregon, Diane Vargas of Templeton, and Danny (Tammy) Arebalo of Creston, Additionally, his sisters Mary Ellen Arebalo of Templeton, Gloria Blanco of Templeton, Evelyn Ford of Oregon City, Oregon, and his brother Dennis Arebalo of Templeton. Moreover, his grandchildren Donovan Seeber of Los Angeles, Dusty Seeber of Templeton, Alicia (Haustin) Morrison of Santa Margarita, Brian (Jessica) Herrmann of Carrollton, Texas, Adam Arebalo of Templeton, Sarena Thompson of Independence, Oregon, Dawn (Carlos) Morales of Atascadero, Corrin Bates of Templeton, Cody (Kimberly) Arebalo of Paso Robles, Shane Arebalo of Creston, and Tyler (Lainey) Arebalo of Paso Robles as remain. Joaquin Also leaves behind 20 great- grandchildren along with numerous nieces, great-nieces, nephews and great-nephews.

A Celebration of Life honoring Joaquin and Wanda together will be held, Saturday, June 28th, 2025 at Oak & Ivy Home Sweet Home located at 282 Cemetery Way, Paso Robles, Ca. From 1 to 5 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you take a moment to embrace those you love most dearly, Alternatively, consider embarking on a walk and reveling in the beauty of nature, whether for a minute or an hour, simply to marvel at its splendor. Time waits for no one!