Joseph Andrew “Joe” Florez passed from this world on May 21, 2018, at the age of 75. Joe was born in Artesia, New Mexico, but grew up in Watsonville, where he met and married his beloved wife, Rosie. Together they raised 3 children and were also incredibly loving and involved grandparents to 7 grandchildren.
Joe was a strong and quiet man who put family above all else. He was also adventurous, whether taking his young family on interstate and cross country trips in their motor home or later visiting his granddaughter in Costa Rica and driving unknown roads across that country. Joe was a very involved and supportive father, including coaching his sons in Little League and driving his children to various school functions. Later in life he along with Rosie were always there to cheer on their grandchildren at any school and sporting events throughout the county and across the country.
Joe was a hard worker all of his adult life, finishing his career as a dedicated bus operator for the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District for 25 years.
Joe was a great man who will be missed by many, but especially by his family. Joe leaves his wife of 55 years, Rosie, his daughter Cynthia, and sons Joseph Jr. and Mark, along with his 7 grandchildren.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mehl’s Colonial Chapel, where a visitation will be held on Monday, May 28th from 5:00 to 9:00pm, with a recitation of the rosary at 7:00pm for friends and family. A Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady Help of Christians (Valley Catholic) Church on Tuesday, May 29th at 10:00am. Burial will follow at Valley Public Cemetery.
