Juan Rafael Miranda
August 14, 1970 - April 30, 2022
Juan Rafael Miranda from Katy, Texas was born on August 14, 1970, in Los Angeles, California. Juan passed away, with family by his side, on April 30th,
2022, in Houston, Texas.
Juan spent his childhood years living in San Luis, AZ.
The family at times would relocate to California during the summer months to follow the harvest and get away from the heat. During one of those summer periods when he was around sixteen he helped his mother with the harvesting and at that time decided that it wasn't for him. He announced to her that he would have a different job the next day he did by cleaning the A/C's for families in the camp. Early on he showed this ability to take the initiative to adapt to a difficult situation and make it better.
Upon graduation from Kofa High School Juan attended the University of AZ to study civil engineering on a full scholarship. Due to his love of science and math he decided to follow in the footsteps of his uncle who was also a civil engineer. Upon earning his degree he started to work in highway construction management. Early on he obtained his professional engineering license which allowed him to move up in the ranks. During his career he worked in Arizona, Utah and finally Texas. In Arizona he was the project manager for the 303 Loop in Phoenix. He served in a similar capacity in Texas. He was well respected by his coworkers and management. He received recognition for projects under him and yet was quite humble about humble them. Juan was extremely dedicated to projects under him and wanted to ensure they were successful. His dedication and responsibility to his profession kept him working up until a few weeks prior to his passing.
Juan was a lover of technology and had an interest in the newest items being developed. He also loved to travel. He made memorable family trips to visit Europe, several states and Mexico. His brother and sisters remember him with great affection as someone who never had an ill word for anyone and who would try and see the best in people. He was also lover of good cuisine. He possessed the rare combination of a being a great brother, father and son. He was someone who appreciated life and exemplified kindness.
Juan was also a hard worker, resilient figure in the face of adversity and person who provided exemplary effort. He had an unassuming and disarming smile that could put anyone at ease. He had a great sense of humor and he was as compassionate as he was funny. Even when ill, Juan was never angry, sad, or depressed he could find the silver lining to keep pushing forward in any situation. He was so special. He represented the good that we all need every day in our lives. He was one of a select few who could actually rise to meet challenges with a smile. We are proud to have been able to call Juan, our brother, our son and a friend.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years Antonia, sons Kevin Hunter and Mar Skylar, his parents Juan Miranda and Celia Lopez (husband Eusebio), four sisters Manuela “Nelli” and her husband Rosendo, Rita “Wit” and her husband Manuel, Sabina “Saby” and Haydee Martinez and her husband Javier and bother Miguel and his wife Ernestina. Niece and nephews include Cristina, Jonathan, Miguel Jr., Sarai, Javier Jr., Esai and Eli.
A celebration of life will be held at Johnson Mortuary/ Desert Lawn in Yuma, AZ from 8:00 am to 9:00 am on May 21st 2022 with the inurnment from 9:00 am to 9:30 am.
A separate memorial is also being held at Dignity Memorial in Katy, Texas on May 14th 2022. Gathering will be from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and the memorial will be from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm.