Jose was born in Estacion Dorado, Chihuahua Mexico on April 22, 1933 to Jose and Refugio Arrieta. He married Dionicia “Nicha” Zambrano on August 25, 1961. He and Nicha migrated to the United States where Nicha gave birth to their first daughter, Maria. Nicha then had another daughter, Graciela “Grace” followed by a son, Jose Jr. “Joe.” Jose’s eldest daughter, Griselda, was born prior to meeting Nicha.
In the early years, Jose worked in the fields and then worked at Layton Drum Company, followed by Holsum Bakery, and retired from City Market Warehouse in 1998. After retiring, Jose spent the majority of his time with his family, including 10 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. Aside from spending time with his family, Jose also loved playing bingo, playing pool, and dancing. In his younger years, he also loved to play Rebote “handball,” and hunt.
Jose loved to tell stories of his past experiences and stressed to his family the importance of hard work and determination. Anyone who had the pleasure of meeting Jose was blessed with one of his many stories, which included stories of perseverance, triumph, and putting others first. He was truly a fighter. Two of his favorite sayings were, “No te rajes,” which means, “Do not give up” and “Abre los ojos,” which means, “Open your eyes” or “Pay attention.”
Jose spent the end of his life surrounded by his family and friends doing the things he loved until Jesus called him home. In true Jose fashion, he fought until the end. While we will miss him dearly, we take comfort in the fact that he is reunited with Grandma Nicha.
He is preceded in death by is wife Nicha, siblings (2 brothers and 2 sisters), and parents. He is survived by his daughter Griselda (Ruben), daughter Maria (Danny), daughter Grace (Marion), son Joe (Candy), and all of his grandchildren.
A visitation for Jose will be held Thursday, May 19, 2022 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary & Crematory, 2515 Patterson Rd., Grand Junction, Colorado 81505. A rosary will occur Thursday, May 19, 2022 at 7:00 PM, 2515 Patterson Rd., Grand Junction, Colorado 81505. A mass of christian burial will occur Friday, May 20, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 230 N 3rd St., Grand Junction, Colorado 81501. A burial will occur Friday, May 20, 2022 at 12:30 PM at Orchard Mesa Cemetery, 2620 Legacy Way, Grand Junction, CO 81503.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.callahan-edfast.com for the Arrieta family.
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