Joel Ray Medriano

Joel Ray Medriano, beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, in Riverside, California, after a lengthy illness. He was born on November 19, 1957, in Salinas, California, to Felix and Remedious Medriano. Both of his parents passed away before he was five years old. From that young age, Joel was raised by his aunt, Leticia Medici, who was Mom to him until his last day.

Joel is survived by his siblings Milo (Irene), Lorri (Michael), Sandy (Darryll), Mike (Lisa), Kimberly (Richard), and Henri; his sister-in-law Natalie, wife of his late brother Steve; and many treasured nieces and nephews, including Marty, Tami, Shannen, Amy, Christi, Carrie, Isabella, Joshua, Stephanie, Mariah, Ryan, Nicholas, Caitlynn, David, Amanda, and Sophie. He loved babies and especially his grand nieces and nephews Evelyn, Shane, Sonny, Ellie, Kaylee, Carter, Olivia, Annabelle, Trent, Jackson, Cayden, and Phoenix.

“Uncle Joel” was deeply loved by his family. He will forever be remembered as the favorite uncle—the one who was always ready for laughter, joy, and fun. His vibrant personality shone brightly in everything he did. Joel was a fashionista with a flair for the artistic, musical, and creative. He was one-of-a-kind, loving, and giving. If there was singing or dancing, Joel was there in the center of it all.

Professionally, Joel was a gifted chef, specially trained in European pastries. He shared his talents working for Disney, baking exquisite delicacies, and spent a lifetime creating cakes and treats for the many who admired his skills—but most often, for the delight of his family. Baking was one of the ways Joel showed love, and his confections became centerpieces of celebrations for decades.

Joel’s passions extended far beyond the kitchen. He loved traveling, meeting new people, and sharing delicious meals with those he loved most, like Filipino food from the land of his heritage. His ability to connect with people led to a wide circle of friends that stretched across the years and places he called home. He was a lifelong animal lover and leaves behind his beloved rescue dog, Midge. Joel also gave generously of his heart and resources. For more than 40 years, he was a loyal supporter of The Eli Home for Abused Children in Orange County. He believed in its mission and joyfully contributed to its fundraisers and events, helping make a difference in the lives of children and families in need. Joel grew up in Salinas and graduated from North Salinas High School in 1975. Soon after, he moved to Anaheim to be near his sister Lorri. In time, nearly the entire family relocated to Southern California, where their bonds grew even stronger.

Joel will be remembered for his love of family, his vibrant zest for life, his kindness, and his boundless creativity. He leaves behind a legacy of joy, laughter, and love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Farewell, dear Joel. Take our love with you until we meet again.

Viewing will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at McAulay & Wallace Mortuary in Fullerton, CA, followed by a Funeral Service at 3:00 p.m. A reception will take place from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at The Charleston in Fullerton, CA. Kindly RSVP to [email protected] by Monday, September 8th.