Juan entered the Army at the age of eighteen during World War II and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded many medals, including the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantry Badge. The experience serving his country developed a deep patriotism, which he passed on to his family, in particular impressing upon them the importance of voting.
After 34 years of service at Kelly Air Force Base, Juan retired to start his own business, working into his early 80s. Mejia Lawn Service indulged Juan’s green thumb and served as a first job to many grandchildren, nurturing strong work ethic and sense of pride. For decades, Juan’s house on Fresno was easily identified by the immaculate lawn and colorful rosebushes.
His spirit for adventure only grew with age as he traveled across Mexico, Europe, and even as far away as Beijing, China.
Never one to shy away from a chance to sing or dance, Juan enjoyed all types of music from mariachi to country to contemporary.
This past Labor Day Juan was honored as a member of The Greatest Generation by the Houston Astros baseball team at Minute Maid Park. With his family in attendance, he received a standing ovation and said it was one of the highlights of his life, capping off a wonderful family weekend celebrating his 93rd birthday.
Preceded in death by his wife, Enedina R. Mejia; his daughter, Rose Ann Harmon and his son-in-law, Richard T. Gonzales. Also by his parents, Cecilia and Pedro Mejia; brothers, Carlos and Salvador Mejia and sisters, Concha Thomas, Aurora Lopez and Raquel Valenzuela.
He is survived by his siblings, Consuelo Diaz, Rodolfo Mejia, Raul Mejia, Beatrice Longoria (Fred) and Gilbert Mejia (Margaret); children, Berta A. Mejia Santos (Renato), Virginia Gonzales, Grace Gonzalez (Hector), Cecilia Sampson (Jack), Johnny Mejia (Carla), Arturo Mejia, Gina Bolton (Tim); 18 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
“Daddy” will be greatly missed by all and we are blessed in the knowledge that he is now in heaven, reunited with his loved ones. We will remember his sense of humor, his storytelling, mischievous smile, and the love he had for us. We were his “Tesoros” and he was our “Consentido.” Daddy, we will always remember you.
Visitation will be held Monday, October 8, 2018 from 5pm-9pm at Funeraria Del Angel Trevino Funeral Home, 226 Cupples Road with the Holy Rosary to be recited at 7pm. Mass will be held Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at St. Brigid Catholic Church, 6907 Kitchener St. at 10am. Followed by interment at San Fernando Cemetery # 2.
