My grandpas obituary: Juvenal Guerrero Anaya Nov. 28, 1920 - Jul. 09, 2014 A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather and the beloved patriarch of the Anayas, Juvenal Anaya died on July 9, 2014 in San Jose, California. Juvenal was born to Cleotilde and Rosalio Anaya on November 28, 1920 in Jalpa, Zacatecas, Mexico. At the age of 18, he spotted his future wife, Dolores Valenzuela and went to her window to propose marriage. At 14, she wasnt interested and tried to get him to leave before she could get into trouble for having a boy over, but he persisted. The only way hed leave is if she agreed to marry him the next day, so finally she said she would, thinking he couldnt possibly be serious. The next day Juvenal returned with a priest. They were blessed with eleven children: Alfonso (deceased at age18mo.), Guillermo, Guadalupe, Alfonso-Juvenal (deceased at age 23), Hermilo, Maria Elena, Enrique, Antonio, Dolores, Socorro and Mario. The early years were difficult for the couple as Juvenal migrated north—sometimes sleeping in orchards of fruit trees—and left his young wife behind in Mexico to care for the children. He went wherever he could find jobs, including railroads in Chicago, but eventually he settled with his cousin Bob in San Jose. In 1957, Dolores and the children joined him and they bought a home on Jerome Street. Juvenal was the most hardworking, committed and loving person. He often worked two jobs to support his growing family and when the kids wanted time with their dad during his only break in between grueling shifts, he would chase them around or play in the yard, no matter how exhausted he was. Juvenals story is truly that of an immigrant fulfilling the American dream, and his dedication paid off. Not only was he able to support ten children, but he also purchased several homes in San Jose and back in Jalpa. After he retired, he dutifully maintained his rental properties and encouraged members of his family to live in them. In fact, it was a rite of passage for many to start lives with their own families in one of his homes. Abuelito, as he was affectionately known by this time, would come over in his signature sombrero to snake the drain or fix just about anything. His generosity was boundless and he delighted in providing for his family; in turn, he was greatly loved. Juvenal was a deeply committed Catholic, never missing church on Sundays even if it meant he had to watch it from home, and he instilled in everyone the importance of faith and family. Over the years, the Anayas developed many sacred traditions, like spending a long Christmas Eve night packed like sardines in Abuelito and Abuelitas house. Just as the kids would get antsy in anticipation of opening presents at midnight, Juvenal would lead the entire house—around 40 people—in praying the rosary. Afterwards, many would kneel over by him and Abuelita to get their blessings and kiss the backs of their hands. In addition to the inspiring immigrant and benevolent father figure, Juvenals legacy is that of a devoted husband. Dolores was his life and they were constant companions. In her characteristically funny way, she would tease and chide him, and Juvenal would always just smile back at her, his crinkled eyes revealing his unconditional love. They were Viejo and Vieja to each other, and they recently celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary alongside their adoring family and friends. Juvenal Anaya joins his sons Alfonso and Alfonso-Juvenal in Heaven. He is survived by his wife, Dolores; his nine children, Guillermo, Guadalupe, Hermilo, Maria Elena, Enrique, Antonio, Dolores, Socorro and Mario and their spouses; his 33 grandchildren and their spouses; and his 37 great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank Manuela, Mari, Candi, Cyndi and Cousin Martha who recently cared for him. A special thanks also goes to the grandchildren who helped without ever hesitating: Elliott, Jennifer and Raquelito.
Posted on: Sat, 12 Jul 2014 01:05:44 +0000
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