Domingo Alvarez Arana

Domingo Alvarez-Arana went home to be with our Lord on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.  Domingo is survived by his daughter in law: Mary Ellen Arana, grandchildren: Adrienne (Michael) Guerra and Brandon Arana and great grandsons: Gabriel, Nicholas and Diego Guerra. He is also survived by his brother-n-law: Tony (Maria) Mendoza, sisters-in-laws: Domitila Mendoza, Eloisa Cherizola (Eduardo), Carmen Mendoza, Lola Earl (Larry) and many nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife: Julia Arana, mother: Maria Alvarez, son: Jose Arana Mendoza, grandson: Joseph Arana, daughter: Juanita Arana, brother: Jose Alvarez Arana and brother in law: Pepe Mendoza Sr.
 

Domingo was born August 4, 1936 in Matatlan, Jalisco. Domingo’s parents, Jose Arana and María (Mariquita) Álvarez moved the family to Guadalajara, Jalisco when he was very young.  It was in Guadalajara that Domingo, approximately 14, met the love of his life, Julia Mendoza Oliva and they married in 1960.  Domingo and Julia started their family while living in Guadalajara.   They had two children: a daughter, Juanita, who died while still a baby and a son, Jose, born in 1964.
Domingo came to the United States in 1968 and made his permanent home in Merced, CA. 
 

Domingo worked many years at Stribling Nursery and also as a ranch hand at Hunt’s farm.  He had a passion for growing his personal garden with various types of the spiciest chili’s you’ve ever had.  He loved to BBQ for family and entertain. His jokes, love for playing cards, and skill at shooting pool will be what anyone who knew him would remember him for.  He was the most generous man with the biggest heart who lived in the moment.  He treasured his grandchildren completely and unconditionally as they were his pride and joy. Also, something he was very proud of was that he spent a majority of his life caring for his wife of 50+ years.     
 

Friends and family are invited to attend the funeral services.  A viewing will be held on Sunday, April 19th from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm at Wilson Family Funeral Chapel in Merced, CA.  A recitation of the rosary will begin at 5:00 pm.  Mass will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Atwater on Monday, April 20th  at 10:00 am.  Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Merced.

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