Mario Peña

Mario Peña, lovingly known as Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Tio and Friend, was called home to be with our Lord on December 7, 2025, at the age of 84. His life was a melody of faith, service, love and music- a song beautifully written by God and generously shared with the world.Mario Peña was born in Sanderson, Texas, to Erlinda De Jesus Rosales Peña and Jose Flores Peña, Mario was one of thirteen children; Toribia, Ofrenia, Alcelmo, Pablo, Maria, Juana, Petra, Constantino, Juan, Guadalupe, Isabel, Solome.

In 1955, Mario’s family moved to Thermal, California, beginning a new chapter of opportunity and change. He later attended Yucaipa High School, where football became a lifelong passion. As a running back, Mario developed discipline and teamwork, earning a school rushing record that lasted for decades.

Shortly before his 18th birthday, Mario proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving in Germany during the Cold War. There, he played football on an Air Force team and traveled across Europe, discovering a love of jazz music that stayed with him for a lifetime.

In 1963, while working in the grape fields of Coachella, Mario met Carmen Curiel, the love of his life. Their connection was instant, rooted in faith, shared work, and music. Together, they performed for more than 40 years, bringing joy to family gatherings, festivals, and community events. Mario cherished his children—Dominic, Marina, and Amalia—and was a devoted father, sharing with them the same love and guidance he learned growing up.

Mario’s life was full of service, curiosity, and creativity. He became a Mason, serving as Master of Redlands Lodge three times, and later joined the Shriners and Scottish Rite, dedicating himself to helping children and his community. He was a passionate bowler, a skilled mechanic, and a musician who could play almost any instrument by ear, filling every space with music and laughter. He loved building, tinkering, and taking things apart just to understand how they worked—and often rebuilt them better than before.

One of Mario’s most cherished traditions was delivering Las Mañanitas in Westmorland with Carmen, an annual celebration of family, music, and community that brought many people together each year. Even when he could no longer perform, he loved sharing stories, listening to others, and celebrating life’s moments with those he loved.

Mario was preceded in death by his parents Jose and Erlinda Peña, his beloved wife Carmen,siblings Toribia, Pablo,Maria,Ofemia,Alcelmo and Juan. He is survived by his children Domenic(Nicole) Robolino, Daughters Marina, Amalia. Grandchildren Domenic Robolino ll,Zachary and Jordan. Siblings Juana Walls,Constino Peña,Guadalupe Solis, Salome Peña,Isabel Peña, and over 100 family members, as well as his beloved dog, Mia.

Mario Peña lived a life full of love, music, laughter, and perseverance. His warmth, generosity, and joy will live on in every story, every song, and every heart he touched.