From his online obit, a brief summary of the remarkable life of Deacon Joseph Ventura Alvarez, from San Jose, California, a pioneer for the diaconate in the United States:
Better known as Deacon Joe, Joe was born May 21st 1919 in Long Beach, California, to parents Guadalupe and Blanche Alvarez. He was a loving brother to Vera, Eddie, Ruben, Paul, and Helen. He was a beloved father to his children, Sheryl and David. He was also a beloved grandfather and great grandfather to his five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
At the age of twenty-one, Joe served honorably in the U.S. Army for four years alongside his brothers Eddie, Ruben, and Paul during World War II. At the time of his honorable discharge, he was awarded a Bronze Star, Cluster, and a Purple Heart.
In 1974, Joe was ordained as a Deacon. During his time with the Diocese, he participated at many events such as masses, weddings, baptisms, teachings, and conference retreats. Anything that the church and community needed, Joe was always there. Through Deacon Joe’s 47 years with the church, he had made many friends and touched many lives within the community of St. John Vianney. Joe was an extraordinary man who loved and cherished everyone he met. Please know that he is in the arms of the Lord, whom he served unconditionally for his entire life.
His parish website adds this, in his staff biography:
Though technically retired, Deacon Joe can be found in our Chapel on Thursday mornings leading the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament after morning Mass.
Well done, good and faithful servant.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him…
