Joseph G. Vasquez

Joseph was a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather whose life was centered around family and hard work. In 1948, he met the love of his life, Petra Jaime, in Huanimaro, Guanajuato, Mexico. The two were married on April 23, 1949, and shared 77 beautiful years of marriage together.

Joseph came from a family of six children and was the second oldest. He grew up alongside three of his four sisters and one brother, carrying the values of responsibility, strength and dedication throughout his life and into the family he built of his own. He was also the last surviving child of Ignacio Vasquez and Soledad Galvan Vasquez. One of his sisters, who passed on at only seven years of age always held a special place in his heart and remained someone he lovingly remembered throughout his life.

In 1965, Joseph made Stockton, CA his home where he built a life rooted in family, friendship, and community. From a young age, Joseph was known for his strong work ethic. Early in his life, he worked making bricks and later worked in the fields before beginning his longtime career with Del Monte Foods, where he was employed from March 16, 1966 until his retirement on January 1, 1991.

Joseph had a deep love for baseball and enjoyed playing the sport throughout his childhood and into adulthood. He also loved the outdoors and took great pride in caring for his yard, fruit trees, plants and flowers. Above all, Joseph found joy in helping others and taking care of the needs of those around him.

He is survived by his beloved wife Petra Jaime Vasquez, his loving children Soledad Villar (Manuel), Maricela Roman, Lupe Gomez (Jorge), Patricia Vasquez Quiroz, Jesus Vasquez (Joequita), Norma Garcia (Arthur) and Edna Arceo (Mark); 22 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren and many extended family members who will continue to cherish his memory and legacy.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ignacio Vasquez and Soledad Galvan Vasquez; and his four sisters and one brother.

Joseph will be remembered for his strength, love and dedication to his family and the love he gave to others. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched throughout his 97 years.