Joseph Mendoza

1957 - 2025

Joseph Michael Mendoza, also affectionately known as Joe, Joey and Joeyho, 67, of Merced, California, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on December 27, 1957, in Merced, Joseph was the heart of his family and the foundation upon which so much love and laughter were built. Over the course of his life he proudly fulfilled his roles as a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. Joey will be remembered for his humor, hardworking spirit, and unwavering dedication to those he cherished.

Joey lived a life full of love, laughter, and a level of stubbornness that could move mountains. He was a proud graduate of Merced High School, class of 76, and San Diego State University. He spent over 30 years working at Farmers Insurance Group, and somehow still had energy left over to run a paper route and work at Dollar General - because sitting still was never really his thing.

Joe married the love of his life, Debra, and the two shared 44 years of marriage. Together, they raised two sons, Joseph Jr. and Aaron both of whom knew better than anyone how deep his love and dedication for them went.

He was the kind of dad who never missed a Little League game, coached from the sidelines (and sometimes from the stands, whether he was supposed to or not), and passed on his love for baseball, fishing, and just about every sport with a ball. A proud player in the men's softball league, Joe stayed active well beyond when his knees told him to slow down - because the game mattered more than the ice packs afterward.

He was also a master of the backyard corn hole tournaments with his grandson Levi, a loyal fan of the 49ers and Giants, and later in life the reigning bingo king - both as a player and, perhaps more enthusiastically, as a caller.

Whether he was playing ball, casting a line while fishing, or enjoying a game of corn hole, Joseph found jov in the simple pleasures.

Joe leaves behind his wife Debra, his 2 sons Joseph Jr and Aaron, his daughter in law Mikaela, 3 incredible grandchildren, 4 siblings; and a lifetime of friends who will never forget his sense of humor, his loyalty, and the way he could turn a Saturday afternoon into a story worth telling.

If you ever heard Joe say, "I've got it taken care of," you could trust that it was - even if it involved zip ties, super glue, and a little bit of luck.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and fondly quoted.

Service details will be shared by the family.