Efren P. Juarez, 90, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, May 2, 2009. He was born June 10, 1918 in Santa Fe. Mich., Mexico. He was a resident of Manteca for over 60 years. He leaves behind his adoring wife of nearly 65 years, Maria R. Juarez of Manteca; and six children; Roy Juarez and wife Rachel, DeeDee Limas and husband Danny, Salvador Juarez and wife Judy, Mary Denuit, Lucille Juarez Del Toro and husband Raul, Lupe Archibeque and husband Danny, all of Manteca. He was also blessed with 16 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

Efren was a kind happy go lucky man. He loved his family dearly and cherished his grandchildren beyond words. He was an honest hard working man always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, such as the homeless, and abandoned animals. He worked as a contractor in the farming and agriculture industry most of his life, and raised rabbits and chickens, in his free time. He enjoyed caring for his garden, and playing cards, but his greatest joy was caring for his beloved wife Maria. He never left her side until God called him home. Mr. Juarez truly had a heart of gold, and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation is being held Friday, May 8, 2009 from 2 to 7 p.m. at P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home, 290 North Union Road, Manteca, followed immediately by a Rosary at 7 p.m. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, May 9, at 11 a.m. in the Chapel at P.L. Fry & Son. Final resting place will be at East Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204.