JOSEPH A. GOMEZ SR.

JOSEPH A. GOMEZ Joseph A. Gomez, Sr. "Papa Joe," of Rialto, entered eternal rest on Saturday, October 9, 2010, at the age of 71. He died at San Bernardino Community Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 6, 1938, in San Bernardino, and had lived in the San Bernardino and Rialto areas all of his life. Joe began working at the Santa Fe Railroad in 1957 shortly after graduating from San Bernardino High School. He retired from Santa Fe in 2000, after 43 years of service. He spent time serving in the Army in the early sixties. He enjoyed talking about the good memories he had from his days in the service and particularly loved remembering the time he spent in San Francisco stationed at the Presidio. He loved watching baseball and football, and played on many baseball teams in his younger years. In his later years, he loved spending time watching his grandchildren play football, softball, soccer, cheerleading, and marching band. Even when he was in poor health, he sat proudly in the stands with a big smile on his face. He was a wonderful husband, brother, father, and grandfather, who left many priceless memories of a life will lived. He was preceded in death by his parents, Angel and Virginia Gomez, and a son, Joseph Gomez, Jr. He is survived by his wife, Yolanda of Rialto; daughter, Yolanda Martinez (David) of Highland; his sons, Steve (Debbie) of San Bernardino, David (Valerie), and Ted (Marianne) of Rialto. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Melissa, Laura, and Melanie Martinez of Highland, Britni, Briana, and Alyssa Gomez of San Bernardino, David Jr., Angela of Rialto, Marissa (Mikey) of Redlands; and one great-grandchild, Mia Calvillo of Redlands; and his brothers, John, Frank (Terry), and Tony Gomez; and his sisters, Delores Fraire (Ruben), and Frances Maestas, all of Rialto. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends to cherish his memory. Joe was loved by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed. A Graveside Service will be held at the Riverside National Cemetery on Thursday, October 14, 2010, at 10:45 A.M.