Everardo Mena Onate

On Wednesday, August 16, 2023, we said farewell to Everardo Mena Oñate, a cornerstone of our large family.
At the age of 92, Everardo, a true patriarch, completed his earthly journey. He was born on January 14th, 1931, in Comanja, a small town in Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, Mexico, he was the eldest child of Refugio Mena and Josefina Oñate. His early years were spent in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, where he met and married Irma Mercedes Carrete. Their shared journey brought them to Southern California in 1972, where they forged new pathways for their growing family of five in the heart of Santa Ana.
A relentless force with determination etched into his very being, Everardo was a man of resolute and sound character, strong will, and determination. A survivor of cancer, his unwavering spirit mirrored his deep faith as a devout Catholic. As a skilled carpenter in the construction realm, he tirelessly crafted cabinets, displays, furniture, and even speed boats, often juggling two jobs to ensure the comfort and well-being of his family. During his elderly years while he was still driving he picked up day old bread from the grocery store and delivered it to needy families.
Yet, beyond his workmanship, Everardo's vibrant essence shone through in his interactions with everyone he encountered. His generosity of wisdom, tales from a life richly lived, and the warmth of shared moments endeared him to those fortunate enough to cross his path. He strongly instilled great values and morals to his children and grandchildren that will continue to be passed on to generations. He loved to be surround by his beloved family and friends, sharing a fondness for his cherished Tequila, a signature delight that sparked cheers among those who knew him. His presence truly was a tapestry of joy and connection.
Everardo is survived by his devoted wife of six decades, Irma Carrete Mena, and their five children: Irma Araceli Mena Olguin, Eduardo Mena, Maria Isela Mena, Everardo Mena Jr., and Jaime Mena. His legacy further lives on through his six grandchildren: Andrew Olguin, Richard Olguin, Jennifer Olguin Jimenez, Richard Everardo Mena, Eduardo Allen Mena, and Ricardo Antonio Mena; along with eight great-grandchildren: Alyssa Olguin, Noah Olguin, Ryan Olguin, Vida Jimenez, Lucy Olguin, Liliana Jimenez, Amelia Olguin, and Victoria Jimenez.
His siblings remain a cherished part of his story: sisters, Carmen Mena Carrete Emma Mena Franco Guadalupe Mena Soledad Ledesma Mena, Eva Mena, Luz María Mena, Teresa Mena, and Dolores Mena. Also remembered are his brothers: Elias Mena Jesus Mena, Salvador Mena, Ignacio Mena, and Raul Mena.
A time to honor and remember Everardo Mena has been set, with a viewing scheduled at Saddleback Chapel Mortuary on September 1st, between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm. We will meet back at Saddleback Chapel Mortuary at 10:00 am, September 2nd, in which then we will travel to Holy Sepulcher Cemetery, where a final farewell will take place, as we lay to rest this remarkable soul whose life has left an exceptional and indelible mark on us all.