Jose Diego Mendez

PHOENIX – After a long life, Jose Diego Mendez, 89, peacefully passed away at his home in Phoenix, Arizona on August 20, 2018. Joe was a dedicated and loved brother, husband, and father. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Rose (nee Martinez), and siblings Molly Arellano, Mary Ruiz, and Alexander Mendez. He is preceded in passing by his eldest son, Jose Ruben and his youngest daughter, Cynthia Paskiang (nee Mendez). His surviving children Patricia Mendez, Debra Rodriguez (Luis), Steven (Lynn), Robert (Veronica), Jamie (Griselda), and Patrick (Isabel), with 24 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren, love and adore their Daddy, Dad, Pops, Wito, and Tata. They thank you all for the love, encouragement, and support you have given during this time.

A Korean War veteran, Joe returned to civilian life as a foundry worker with Midland Steel Capital Foundry and worked there for 43 years. His enthusiasm for landscaping the yard and home improvement projects followed him late into his life, and was a good fit with “Sugar”, Rose. He was an original DIY guy, building a wooden camper shell for his camping family because money was always tight. This from a man who didn’t care for camping himself. The little dittys and songs he made up and sang while puttering around the house, were amusing and surprising for all family and friends. Although he was not a man large in stature, his physical strength and resilience were something of wonder - especially his grip! He had a grip that would rival a super hero.

Services for Tata will be held at Abel Funeral Home (1627 N 51st Ave) on Tuesday, August 28th 2018 from 10:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. Graveside services will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery at 12:30 pm.