Joe Zaragoza Tirado

Joe Zaragoza Tirado, 88, of Visalia, California passed away on February 12, 2015 in Visalia, California. He was born in Bakersfield , California on March 5, 1926 to Vicente and Arcadia Tirado. The family moved to JD Martin Ranch near Ivanhoe, California. Joe attended Paloma Elementary. He served in the United States Army from 1944 to 1946 during World War II. Following his discharge, Joe worked as a farm laborer for over 35 years, retiring in 1977. He was a longtime member of Holy Family Catholic Church of Visalia. Joe loved working on his 1967 Mustang, listening to music, watching boxing, watching baseball games and he was an avid Oakland Raider fan. His greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family and friends.

Joe was preceded in death by three brothers - Juan, Modesto and Frank; two sisters – Frances Tirado Gonzales and Helen Santana and his son David Tirado.

He leaves to cherish his memory, four children, Mary Vaca and husband, Rudy, Norma Tirado, Frances Tirado and Linda Garcia and her husband, Efren, all of Visalia; twelve grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Joe’s family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Merritt Manor Convalescent Home, Kaweah Delta District Hospital and their staff for the tender loving care that was shown to Joe during his illness.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2015 from 4 – 6 pm followed by Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6 p.m. at Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Avenue in Visalia. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 20, 2015 at 9 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 1908 N. Court in Visalia. Burial will follow at Visalia District Cemetery.

Tributes and condolences may be made at www.millerchapel.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Ave., Visalia, CA 93291 (559_ 732-8371.