Jose J. Rios

Jose Jesus Rios was born on December 13, 1928 in Durango Mexico.   

At the age of 22, his life’s journey would begin by the sudden kiss from a beautiful  young 14 year old, Maria del Refugio who would become his wife on February 12, 1950.  Together they ran away to Monterrey, Mexico to become one.  Soon after, they were sent away to Laredo, Texas to begin their family.

Nora, Tito, Belinda, Peter, Daniel, Anita, Marlene, Rosemarie, Alma, Herlinda, Corina, Andrew, Jerry…

Beloved grandpa to 37 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.  

Determined to give his family a future and an opportunity, he continued his journey to Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1956 where he would purchase a house for $10,000. 

Together, Jose and Maria studied English to adopt the American way he was so proud to grow into. 

He believed in earning the things he needed to provide for his family. 

He demonstrated his hard work with his many years at Wehr Steel foundry and creativity in his craftiness.  He enjoyed his seasonal exterior house painting, cold snow plowing, puzzles, and inquisitive nature to take things apart and put them back together. 

He was a man of simple pleasures such as popsicles, weekend pancakes, handing out candy and prizes for a job well done.

Above all interests and hobbies, he was a “pop” to many.  

As a father, he would guide and instruct his children with the Psalms. The ladies were taught the virtue of a woman by the teachings of Ruth. 

The men were taught to be courageous, strong, and providers of their own families.

Finally, beyond the accomplishments, he was a man of sincerity who apologized for his faults up to his final days and was sure to remind everyone of his love and joy.

His great smile and hell-lo’s at the entrance of a room would bring joy and laughter to a room. 

His exit in the middle of a quarrel would leave a room in silence. 

His final exit home to eternal life at the age of 92 on September 23, 2021 would bring all together once more.

“Ya te puedes ir viejo, ay te sigo” - Rey

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