Jose Luis Alvarez, loved his family
Jose Luis Alvarez, 64, died of various health complications Tuesday March 19, 2019. His passing was peaceful, with his wife and children at his bedside at his home in Bridgeville. He was born Feb. 21, 1955, in Donna, Texas to Ignacio and Margarita (Hernandez) Alvarez, being sixth of 12 children.
In 1972, his landscaping work brought him to Frankford, where he met his wife, Leanne. In 1977, he began working at Sterwin Labs in Millsboro, and although the company changed parent companies several times, he worked the same job for 38 years. A dedicated employee, he sometimes rode his bicycle 17 miles to work when necessary. He also took on several second jobs in order to provide for his family.
He loved to draw and watercolor painting, watch westerns, listen to “oldies but goodies” on the radio, participate in bowling leagues, take his grandson fishing, and attend Shorebirds baseball games with his daughter. He was able to make friends from strangers, engaging folks with his sense of humor and quick wit, and was always willing to help others with his big heart.
He is preceded in death by his father, Ignacio (1999) and his oldest brother, Mario (2017).
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Leanne Alvarez; his three children, Jason Alvarez, Leah Alvarez and Justin Alvarez; Debbie Fickling and Billy Joe Carey, whom he loved as his own; and his two grandsons, Skylar Alvarez and Jaxon Alvarez. He also leaves behind his mother, Margarita Alvarez; a brother, Randy Alvarez; as well as nine sisters, Yolanda Solis, Connie Trevino, Miro Alvarez, Maria Caño, Ninfa Alvarez, Sammie Pequeño, Lilia Alvarez, Lorie Peña, and Angie Alvarez; and many nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held at noon, Tuesday, March 26, at Abundant Life Church, 20488 Donovan’s Road, Georgetown, with the funeral service following at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Abundant Life Church, P.O. Box 115, Georgetown, DE 19947.
Arrangements in the care of Short Funeral Services, Georgetown.
