Joe Morales Mercado

May 20, 1945 – October 24, 2026

Joe Morales Mercado, 81, of Loma Linda, California, passed away on October 24, 2026, in Loma Linda.

Joe was born on May 20, 1945, in Colton, California, to Felix Hernandez Mercado and Petra Morales Mercado. Raised as part of a large family, Joe carried with him throughout his life the values of hard work, determination, and family.

Joe worked for Riverside Company from 1977 until 2003, dedicating more than 25 years to his career before retiring.

Joe was a no-nonsense man who believed in hard work, personal responsibility, and doing things the right way. As a father, he was known for his tough love, a quality that remained part of who he was until his final day. His lessons were not always delivered softly, but they came from a father who wanted his sons and family to be strong, capable, and prepared for life.

Joe was the proud father of two sons, Joey Mercado and his wife, Sandy, and Eddie Mercado and his wife, Vanessa.

He was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Serena Mercado, Madeline Mercado, Gabryelle Mercado, James Mercado, Celeste Rodriguez, Naomi Sanchez, and Mariah Tarin. His children and grandchildren will carry forward the lessons, memories, and strength he shared with them.

Joe came from a large family and shared his life with many brothers and sisters. He was preceded in death by his siblings Mary, Mike, Rosendo, Agapito, Candido, Rose, Connie, and Lolo. He is survived by his siblings Angie, Mickey, and Isaac.

Joe also held a very special place in his heart for his dear friend Leno Moreno, Leno's wife, Liz, and their sons, Chris, Nico, and Tommy. Their friendship grew into something far greater than friendship alone; Leno and his family became an important part of Joe's extended family. The love, loyalty, companionship, and bond Joe shared with them meant a great deal to him. They brought friendship and happiness into his life, and the special relationship they shared with Joe will forever remain an important part of his story. Joe loved them dearly and considered them family in every sense of the word.

Sports were a lifelong part of Joe's life. He was a devoted fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Los Angeles Rams. But Joe did not just enjoy watching sports. Beginning at only 12 years old, he developed a passion for handball and racquetball, activities that remained an important part of his life for many years.

Joe also loved music, especially oldies. He was a fan of Ritchie Valens, and the music of his generation held a special place in his heart. When he was not listening to oldies or following one of his favorite teams, he enjoyed watching Westerns, with Gunsmoke being a particular favorite.

Joe lived 81 years with strength, determination, and an unmistakable way of doing things on his own terms. Those who knew him will remember a man who did not believe in sugarcoating life. He gave his family tough love, honest advice, and lessons meant to make them stronger.

His passing leaves an absence that cannot be filled, but the influence of a father and grandfather does not end with his passing. It lives on through his sons, his grandchildren, his family, his dear friends, and the lessons and values they will continue to carry forward.

Joe will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Services

Services honoring Joe's life will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2026, at:

Montecito Memorial Park and Mortuary

3520 E. Washington St.

Colton, CA 92324

Service: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Burial: 10:30 a.m., following the service