Joe Peña-Valdez

Joe Duran Pena-Valdez passed away July 16, 2017 at his home in Safford, AZ with his wife by his side. He was born July 5, 1941 in Delano, CA to Matilda & Francisco Pena. The family moved to Parker, AZ where Joe became interested in farming, especially the marketing of alfalfa hay. He moved to Mesa, AZ where he met the love of his life, Phyllis Jordan. They were married in Mesa, AZ on August 23, 1974. Joe loved adventure and was ready to pick up and go anytime. Many camping trips and trips to the ocean were always on his list of things to do, he loved seeing new places. He returned to truck driving because of his love of the open road and continued driving until his retirement. He leaves behind his loving wife, Phyllis, and 8 children: Shelly Pena-Valdez Onsurez (Filemon), Rosanna Pena (Robert Mooneyham), Mona Cortez, Danielle Cantrell, Pati Twyman (Tony), Ben Pena (Gussie) Joe Pena (Barbara) and Tim Pena and a special granddaughter Kimberly Jo Rojas (Daniel). Also surviving are 2 brothers, Richard & Robert, and 2 sisters, Mary Pena & Cruz Nino and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Matilda & Francisco Pena, sisters Angie Agredano and Mercy Burgoz, and brothers Frank and Ray Pena. Joe will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him. A Celebration of Life will be held at the FFF Clubhouse in Safford, AZ on August 12, 2017 at 6:00 p.m.