CW4 Ret. Jose C. Ibarra

CW4 Ret. Jose C. Ibarra passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2014 at the age of 85. Born July 24, 1928, he graduated from Bowie in 1947. He enlisted in the U.S. Army as a PFC in 1948. He worked his way up through the ranks, finally retiring as a CW4 in 1978. He was the last of the 175th Ranger Battalions original officers, served three tours in Vietnam, had over a thousand jumps as an airborne ranger, was a member of the Special Forces Association, Green Berets, and Special Ops unit. He was a very decorated soldier. While in the army, he took evening classes to receive his bachelor’s degree in Business at the University of Nebraska. Some of his noteworthy decorations and awards were Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Seven Vietnamese Campaign ribbons, Combat Infantrymen’s Badge, Master Parachute Wings, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star and the Purple Heart. He was nominated for the Ranger Hall of Fame. He was very proud to be serving his country, so much so, he made a career out of it. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Annell Ibarra, and eldest son John. He is survived by sons Tony and David Ibarra, daughters Julie Minchey and Christina Ibarra, several grandchildren and great grandchildren. This country has lost a great soldier. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Visitation will be held from 5pm to 9pm Monday, April 21, 2014 at Funeraria Del angel Martin Central with a 7pm vigil. Funeral Mass will be held 9:45 am, Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to 82nd Airborne Association Benavidez Patterson Chapter.