Luis Juarez

Luis Banuelos Juarez, Husband, Father, Bracero, Zacatecano, 80, of Salinas passed away Friday April 5, 2013. He was born June 21, 1932, in Valparaiso, Zacatecas. Luis was the third of seven children born to Miguel Juárez and Carmen Bañuelos Juárez. Luis lived a strong, vibrant life, full of so much love for his immediate and distant family, his lifelong and newly formed friendships, his community of co-workers and employers and the neighbors he looked out for. Luis and Maria A. Juárez, had just completed their 48th year as husband and wife. Luis arrived to California as a Bracero in the early ‘50’s and worked the lands of the Santa Clara and the Salinas Valley. He was most proud that he was employed at Spreckels Sugar factory for 40 years and built many lasting friendships during his time there. The exuberant energy he brought to his work was something to be regarded and earned him the reputation of being an unquestionably hard worker. He continued to work in his later years as retirement did not suit him. He was employed the last 12 years with Rancho Espinoza as a foreman in their greenhouses. He shared his love of the game of baseball with his children and grandchildren taking any opportunity to attend a game ever since his first time seeing the San Francisco Seals play. His passion for the rodeo was instilled in him as a child growing up in his land back in Mexico, and would be evident whenever he was invited to participate to mount a horse and jump into the corrals of family and friends. He attended the California Rodeo faithfully. Many remember him as a family man proud of the accomplishments of his offspring, many remember him for his zeal for life but most of all he is remembered for the courage he displayed overcoming the challenges he faced in providing for those he loved, especially his wife, Maria Amparo. Luis is survived by his dedicated wife, Maria Amparo; children, Juan (Joy) Juarez, Carmen (Chuck) Schreiber, Luis Xago(Rosa) Juarez, Jesus (Shauna) Juarez, 10 grandchildren, Jeremy, Jill, Jacob, Sheldon, Austin, Christian, Aleah, Joezelle, Emma, Maya; two great grandchildren, Ethan, Anabelle; his brother Raul, sisters; Victoria and Jovita and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 11, 2013 1-9pm with a Rosary recital at 7pm, all at Healey Mortuary 405 N. Sanborn Rd. Salinas, CA 93905. A Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, April 12, 2013 at 12 noon at St. Mary of the Nativity Chuch 424 Towt St. Salinas, CA 93905. Burial to follow services at the Garden of Memories Cemetery 850 Abbott St. Salinas, CA 93901.