Joe R. Encinas Jr.

Joe was born on August 22, 1941 in Douglas, Arizona to Maria and Jose Maria Encinas. He was the fifth of eleven children and in 1945 his family relocated to Central Northern California. He graduated from Orosi High School in Cutler, California in 1960 and soon after moved to Southern California where he began his career in construction.

Joe met the love of his life, Sally Vasquez, at the Rainbow Gardens dance hall in Pomona. They were married on May 11, 1963 and shared 62 wonderful years together until Sally's passing on April 24, 2025.

In the early 1980's Joe purchased ten acres of orange groves with which he carefully oversaw the maintenance and harvesting. With the help of his close friends and compadres he built his custom home at the center of the groves. It took working weekends for six years to finally finish. He lived in Bloomington for over 40 years.

In 1989 Joe founded his own business, Joe Encinas Construction, which he operated until his retirement in 2004.

Joe was a devout Catholic and a dedicated member of St. Charles Catholic Church where he served as a Sunday usher for more than 40 years. He also played a significant role in the church's expansion, generously donating his time, materials, and craftsmanship.

He was a man who appreciated life's simple joys whether it was an ice cream on a hot day or a cozy fire with roasted marshmallows on a cold evening. He was also a proud and loyal Los Angeles Dodgers fan always enjoying watching the games and cheering on his team.

Joe is survived by his children, Adrian (Sandy) Encinas, Rhonda Encinas, Joann (Sergio Camarillo) Encinas, and Robert Duran; his grandchildren, Hannah Madden, Andrew Encinas, Eric Encinas, Chloe Camarillo, Jack Madden, Melia Camarillo, and Cameron Duran; his great-granddaughter, Eden Encinas; and his two beloved dogs, Otis and Gustavo.