Jose Candelaria Sr.

Jose Candelaria Sr. passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.  He led a full and successful life from his birth in Socorro, Texas in 1933.  He attended Ysleta High School in 1953 where he excelled in Football, Basketball and especially in Baseball.  He was named El Paso Player of the Year in 1953 with a batting average of .628.  After graduation he enlisted in the United States Army where he was stationed in Korea.  Upon his return he joined the El Paso Police Department rising to the rank of Sergeant.  During his twenty years of service, he received several commendations.

Jose was also a successful businessman.  He was the sole owner of Rose n Jo’s Auto Sales for over fifty-five years.  In his later years Joe took up golf and fell in love with the sport.  Again, he excelled, accomplishing an astonishing seven hole in ones.

Joe was best described by a sports article written about him back in 1953, “Joe was Great and Great because of Heart.  Joe did it all with heart, hustle and desire.”

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Irma Candelaria.  His daughter Elza Candelaria Chacon, his son Jose Candelaria Jr. and his sister Carmen Duran.  He leaves behind six grandchildren and one great grandchild.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ignacio and Belen Candelaria, three sisters Genoveva Baisa, Alicia Holguin and Blasa Candelaria. Also seven brothers Arturo Candelaria, Rodolfo Candelaria, Ricardo Candelaria, Carlos Candelaria, Ignacio Candelaria Jr., Miguel Candelaria and Ramon Ramirez.

He will be greatly missed.  Dad, I hope we did justice in honoring you and meeting your wishes and expectations.  Thank you is not enough for all you did for us.

A visitation will be held from 5 PM to 9 PM with a rosary starting at 7 PM on Wednesday, March 1st, 2023 at Sunset Funeral Home Americas, 9521 North Loop, El Paso, TX 79907.  A mass will begin at 11:30 AM on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at La Purisima Catholic Church, 328 Nevarez Rd., Socorro, TX 79907.  A graveside will follow at 1 PM at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave., El Paso TX 79907.