Jesus M. Camacho

Jesus M. Camacho was born on January 4, 1925 in San Diego, CA. Chuey, as he was known, ran the streets of San Diego when he was young. He had a great group of friends and loved to play baseball on empty lots. Chuey was not able to complete the 10th grade in high school due to the need for him to go to work and help support his family. One of his early jobs was bagging groceries at a local grocery store. In May 1943 he enlisted and served our Country in the United States Army doing his three year term as military policeman; including 14 months in the European Theater of Operations. Chuey was Honorably Discharged in May, 1946.

Chuey married Jennie Castillo on January 4, 1948 and they lived in San Diego their entire married lives. Chuey and Jennie had three children. Chuey worked at National Steel (Nassco) for many years. Chuey was divorced and remarried and moved to Oahu, Hawaii for a couple of years and later returned to San Diego.

Chuey then lived with his children. He was able to take care of his daughter’s young children and later moved in with his son and family. In 2004 he moved into his own place and worked at a local elementary school; filing books and reading to the children as they enjoyed his company. He never missed a day of work. He also worked a thrift store in North Park

Chuey in his later years had been cared for by his son and oldest daughter, without reservations. When Chuey got to the point in his life where he needed a caregiver due to dementia, his son, Chuey Jr, made it his mission to make sure his father was well taken care of; bathing him, taking him on outings, and watching sports with him. His son also arranged for the agency IHSS to assist his father with caregivers, who would assist Chuey with his daily needs. His daughter Sandra and his daughter-in-law Yolanda also made sure he was well provide for, without limits and would ensure that he was present at all family functions such as Christmas, Easter, birthdays and Thanksgiving. He enjoyed being around the grandchildren and would light up when he was around the smallest ones, especially the newest great-granddaughter, Aliyah, who just turned 10 months old. These three children, Sandra, Yolanda and Chuey would do anything for him and would prepare meals for him that he enjoyed, especially shrimp.

Chuey’s ex-wife, Jennie, just recently passed away on December 12, 2012, Chuey, due to his health, was not informed of her death.

Chuey was loved dearly by his son, Jesus Camacho, Jr, daughter Sandra Camacho and daughter-in-law, Yolanda Camacho. He is also survived by his daughter Monica Magale and his 9 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

He will be missed by those who loved him.