Obituary of Josemario Morones

On January 1, 2022, Josemario (Joe) Morones passed away peacefully with his devoted wife and family by his side.

Joe met the love of his life, Martha Gomez, in the first grade at Manzo Elementary School. They married in 1970 and remained happily married for 51 years. Joe and Martha lovingly raised 3 girls, Bea (Jason) Couturier, Margaret Morones, and Maria Irene (Doug) Clauschee. He was “tata” to 13 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Joe was born in Douglas, Arizona, he moved to Tucson as a toddler, where he lived for the remainder of his life. He is preceded in death by his father, Arnulfo Morones F., sister, Elisa (Guera) Morones V., brothers, Alberto (Tito) Morones V. & Arnulfo B. Morones, and his granddaughter Brianna M. Rocha.

Joe lived to be 70 years old and was a pillar of love to his family. He is survived by his mother, Emma Bonillas Morones, sisters Griselda (Dave) Gonzalez, Connie (David) Rodriguez, Terry Morones, Martina (Frank) Johansen, and brother Ruben (Norma) Morones. “Tio Joe” will be missed by countless nephews, nieces, great nephews, and great nieces. He was a beloved cousin and nephew to his extended family in Sonora, Mexico, known as “Mario”. Joe was adored by his in-laws including the Gomez, Couturier, and Clauschee families. His big heart and compassionate nature meant that if you knew him, you were treated as family.

Second to the love for his family, Joe loved his work, hobbies, and dancing. He was a highly skilled carpenter, gardener, and cook. If something needed to be fixed or built the right way; Joe was always there. Joe’s kindness and humorous way made friendships everywhere he went. He worked in San Manuel for more than two decades at the Magma/BHP copper mine. When the mine closed, Joe went back to school and worked in HVAC with Temco Air Enviromental in Tucson and retired after 10 years.

In retirement he enjoyed the time with his family and friends, and played with his grandchildren and great grandchildren as often as possible. He continued to attend football games as a devoted U of A football fan and season ticket holder since 1972. Joe expanded his garden and spent hours in his workshop. He lived a full and purposeful life, filled with love and laughter.