Juan Antonio Maldonado

He was the loving husband of Patti for fifty beautiful years—a union grounded in faith, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Beloved father of Patti (Carlos) Salinas and Juan Antonio (Nelda) Maldonado II. Proud “Papa” of Ariana Lizet, Carlos Marcus, JuanCarlos, Olivia Grace, Isabelle Analise, Sophia Lizbeth, Lilianna Raquel, and Juan Antonio III. Cherished brother of San Juana Delia (Gerardo) Saavedra, Imelda Maldonado, José Roel (Yolanda) Maldonado, Zoraida (Marcelino) Maldonado-Márquez, and Candido (Leticia) Maldonado. He will be deeply missed by countless nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends, who were blessed to share in his love and laughter.

Juan was preceded in death by his parents, Florentino and Celia, and by his brothers, Florentino II (Edna) and Rolando (Christina).

Born in Cerralvo, Nuevo León, Mexico, Juan was deeply proud of his heritage and family roots. After completing his ‘licenciatura’ (bachelor’s degree) at the Instituto Tecnológico de Monterrey in 1971, he made the United States his final home—a dream nurtured through years of traveling back and forth between both countries during his youth.

He built a life of integrity and purpose, dedicating his career to his craft as a skilled machinist—work he carried out with precision, pride, and quiet excellence. Deeply respected among his peers, Juan was an active member of Laborers’ International Union Local 1191, where his wisdom and leadership earned the trust of many. Upon his retirement, he was invited to serve as a judge for the International Laborers’ Council—a role that reflected the esteem he had earned through a lifetime of dedication, fairness, and honor in his work.

A man of deep faith and perseverance, Juan celebrated forty-one years of sobriety- an enduring witness to grace, humility, and inner strength. For the past fifteen years, Juan was a devoted member of St. Colette Parish, serving faithfully as a Third-degree Knight of Columbus with the Dooley Council No. 5492 since 12/4/2011 and a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus with the Pope John XXIII assembly 1536 since 3/2/2019. For over twenty-five years, he also found spiritual renewal through the annual Men’s Retreat at St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat Center—a sacred tradition that nourished his heart and strengthened his walk with Christ.

He lived a life of quiet generosity, steadfast faith, and deep love—a man who found his greatest joy in family, service, and the peace of God that guided his every step.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 26, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152. A Knights of Columbus Rosary will take place at 7:00 pm.

An in state will occur on Monday, October 27, from 10:30 am to 11:00 am at St. Colette Catholic Church, 17600 Newburgh Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, followed by a funeral mass beginning at 11:00 am. Juan's final resting place will be St. Hedwig Cemetery & Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to the St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat Center.