John Alva

John Alva Sr (“Papa”) passed away on July 2, 2024. Born in Thatcher, AZ on December 22, 1937 to Juan and Francsica Alva, he lived his life to the fullest. He graduated from Thatcher High School and Northern Arizona University. He also served in the United States Army and is a Vietnam Veteran. He loved to be around his family; especially his grandchildren. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed coaching, watching sports on T.V., and watching his kids and grandkids play. If you knew Papa you knew he was free as the breeze and he did as he pleased. 

John is survived by his daughter Sharon and his two sons John and Alfonso - wife Kristen, as well as 13 grandkids and 5 great grandkids. He is also survived by his dear friends, the Jace John family. 

There are no public funeral services at this time. Arrangements were cared for by McDougal’s Caldwell funeral Chapel located at 112 E. Main St., Safford, AZ 85546 phone number 928-428-1740