Jose Lona

Jose (Pepe) Lona was born on November 24, 1955 in Valle De Santiago Guanajuato, Mexico. His parents Salvador and Adela Lona wanted a better life for their children so they moved the family to San Diego, California in 1963. It is there where Pepe and his four siblings: Maria, Irma, Salvador Jr., and Aristeo spent their entire childhood.

As a teenager Pepe was very athletic and enjoyed surfing at Imperial Beach, and playing soccer with his cousins. He was also the most artistic one of the family; he loved art and was known for enjoying an eclectic taste in music. His favorite artists could range anywhere from Led Zeppelin, to Mozart.

Pepe completed his schooling in San Diego and proudly graduated from Montgomery High School in 1974

Soon after completing high school Pepe met and married the love of his life, Mari (Trini) and settled in Chula Vista. Pepe successfully worked in the silk screening business for several years, were he excelled in various management positions. Later in life Pepe changed career paths and went into nursery sales where he spent the rest of his career.

At home he was known for many different attributes; from a top chef with salsa and pancakes to a recently renowned dog whisperer. His personality was always praised and loved by many, his witty comments and come backs flowed out almost effortlessly which then made everyone burst out with laughter. His take on the world was, live it and live it happy, due to the fact that you hardly ever saw him mad or upset with something for too long. He truly lived with a kind heart.

His love for the beach doubled when you added the Torres family reunion and a good taquero. In any gathering you could find Pepe behind his high powered camera snapping pictures of everyone, but for some reason the photos he took always seemed to focus mostly on the different poses of his wife.

Pepe influenced many with his attitude, music, and overall kindness. He would always tell his nephews “If the beaver gives you a fish, you take the fish”. For a long time no one knew what it meant, but as these few days has passed by we realized it means take what life gives you and don’t complain, be grateful for what you have and who you have around you. Wise words, from a wise man.

Pepe was a kind loving person and you could always rely on him to be there for his friends, and family. Everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him will forever miss him, and we will always carry him close to our hearts.