Elpidio Aguilera Alvara

Elpidio Alvara, known affectionately as “Pio” & “Pops”, was called to Everlasting Life on May 8, 2024 in Oxnard, CA at the age of 102 years old. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on March 1, 1922, in Guanajuato, Mexico, Elpidio was the eldest son of the late Rufina and Jose Alvara. At the age of one, the Alvara Family moved to the United States to join their extended family. They initially resided in San Bernardino County, then in the 1930’s, they relocated to Ventura County. The family lived in La Limoneira in Santa Paula and later settled in Oxnard. Here is where he would remain to raise his own family.

In 1942, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served during World War II. During his years of service, he was able to travel to many places which included Arkansas, Oregon, New Jersey, England, France, and Germany. After four years of service, Elpidio returned home to Oxnard where he dedicated over 35 years as an Equipment Operator for the city.

In 1947, Elpidio married his beloved wife, Mary Soliz and they were married for 56 years until her passing in 2003. They were blessed with four children: Ruben, David, Rosemary, and Diana. They had eight grandchildren: Tanila, Joey, Ruby, Mary, Diana Jessica, Ruben Jr., Jarred, and Casey. He was also a great grandfather to eight great grandchildren. He especially loved spending time with his great grandchildren who lived in Oxnard, Vanessa, Mason, and Ylana.

Pio was a devoted parishioner at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church for 65 years where he attended mass daily and served as an Usher. Since 1985, he has been a committed member of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul where he volunteered every week in the food pantry. He was very social as an active member in “Oxnard’s Old Timer Club” and during his daily “McDonalds Morning Meetups”. He was a sports enthusiast and always cheered on his LA Angels, UCLA Bruins, LA Rams, and Lebron James.

Elpidio was preceded in death by his loving wife Mary, son Ruben, daughter Diana, parents, brothers, and other family members. He is survived by his children David and Rosemary, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He will always be remembered for his great faith, devotion to his family, and his pride in serving his country.

Memorial services will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church located at 2511 South C St., Oxnard, CA 93033. On Thursday, May 30, 2024, there will be a Viewing from 4:30-5:30pm followed by the Rosary from 5:30-6:30pm. The Funeral Mass will be on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 10:00 am followed by the burial at Santa Clara Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please honor Elpidio’s legacy by donating to a charity that is near and dear to his heart, the Society of St. Vincent De Paul.