Jose (Joe) Felan Piña Jr. “Chepo”August 10, 1936 – December 3, 2025

With deep sorrow and immense love, we announce the passing of Jose (Joe) Felan Piña Jr., fondly known as “Chepo.” Born on August 10, 1936, in Lampasas, Texas, to Jose Piña Sr. and Guadalupe Felan Piña, he entered the arms of his Savior on December 3, 2025.

Joe was one of twenty children, a fact that shaped him in countless ways. Growing up in a large migrant family that traveled from state to state for seasonal work, he learned early the value of humility, perseverance, and the importance of contributing to family. He often said he learned everything from his dad, skills, work ethic, and the quiet dignity of doing a job well. Because he had to work instead of attending school, he did not have the formal education many rely on. Yet he went on to build a life filled with incredibly skillful careers, becoming the man everyone called when something needed to be fixed, built, or figured out. Joe had the talent of learning simply by watching, and he could put together or repair anything placed before him.

In 1975, Joe married the love of his life, Ramona Castillo Piña, and together they began their life in Tracy, California, where Joe managed several farms before becoming a lead mechanic for the irrigation district, among other meaningful jobs that showcased his skill and dedication. In 1993, after years of hard work and service, he retired from the irrigation district and moved his family back to Washington to be near his father, an act that showed his loyalty, love, and deep respect for family. Joe and Ramona shared 50 beautiful years together filled with love, work, music, and family. Joe played the accordion, and Ramona played the guitar, and they often filled their home with music, singing and playing together during gatherings, holidays, and quiet evenings. These were treasured moments woven into the fabric of their family life.

Joe loved his Texas family deeply and traveled often, by car or plane, to visit and attend family reunions. He always said they treated him like a “King,” and they held a special place in his heart.

Joe never met a stranger. Whether at the store, a gas station, or anywhere he went, he was known for striking up conversations that could last for hours. He loved to talk about the “good ol’ days,” share memories, or simply visit with old friends, family members, or friendly faces who crossed his path. His warmth and openness drew people to him wherever he went.

Joe was also an avid fisherman, finding peace and clarity on the water. Fishing, he often said, helped him clear his mind. He enjoyed annual family fishing trips for many years and took advantage of every opportunity to cast a line. He often went fishing with a special family friend, Leonel Corona, whom he saw as his own grandson. They were true fishing buddies, sharing countless hours and memories on the water.

Another one of Joe’s joys was gardening. He had a true green thumb, planting a luscious garden every year that included jalapeños, tomatoes, zucchini, corn, watermelon, cantaloupe and more. Everything he planted flourished. His garden was a reflection of who he was: patient, nurturing, attentive, and full of life.

Joe was a person who valued time and respect, and he was always early to appointments, gatherings, or any event. For him, being on time meant being there ahead of time, ready and prepared. He was a man of many admirable traits, and always being early was one of them.

Joe is survived by his wife of 50 years, Ramona C. Piña, and eight of his children: Joe (Maribel) Piña, Stella (Miguel) Torrez Sr., Lia Piña (Joe), Lino (Brenda) Piña, Damian (Marylou) Piña, Dominique Piña, Omar Piña, and Adriana (Adam) Cardenas. He was preceded in death by two sons, Joe Piña III and Arthur Piña.

Joe is also survived by his siblings: Elsie Vargas, Marvin (Ana) Piña, Urbie (Beatrice) Piña, and Mary Piña.

He is also survived by countless grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by fifteen of his brothers and sisters, his parents, and many other loved ones who have welcomed him into eternal rest.

Though the ache of his absence is profound, we find comfort in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. We hold tightly to the assurance that this separation is only temporary and that we will see him again, restored and joyful, in the presence of our Lord and Savior.

“And this is the promise that He has promised us—eternal life.”— 1 John 2:25

Joe’s legacy of humility, skill, hard work, storytelling, and love will live on in the countless lives he touched. He leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his memory and strive to carry forward the values he embodied.

Until we meet again, Dad, thank you for everything. Your love, wisdom, and example will guide us all our days.