Jose Epifanio Griego

JOSE EPIFANIO GRIEGO

Born: November 16, 1949 in Denver, CO

Died: May 3, 2020 in Tempe, AZ

Occupation: Vietnam Vet, Grandfather and Ranchero

Our dad spent his last week with his grandkids and daughter on the piece of Earth in New Mexico that he most cherished.  They saw the work he had done on his ranch, they hiked, shot guns, laughed, told stories/lies, and drove around the “Land” appreciating the time and life they had together.  He said it was the best time of his life- “to the Max, Ese”.  He always said he would live for another 200 years and he will – Jose’s legacy is carried on by his daughter, Natalie Griego-Pavon (48), her kids, Marcus Maldonado (23), Xiamara Griego-Pavon (15), Gisela Griego-Pavon (9), and his newest granddaughter yet to be born  to his eldest son Jose N. Griego (44).  His youngest son, Miguel Griego (36) is also a veteran (Navy) and resides in Tempe with the rest of our family.

Jose became the patriarch of his family when his father Epifanio Griego passed away at age 72.  He is  survived by his former wife Martha S. Griego (70), mother Amelia Garcia (88), his 3 brothers; Antonio, Jesse and Henry; and his 3 sisters; Pandora, Carmen and Alvira and all their kids/grandkids = 74!  The Griego family will live on through all of his family members.  We appreciate the time that we had with Jose as he was truly one of a kind (if you knew him you know exactly what we mean :)

Our dad served in Vietnam and lived out the rest of his life surrounded by his family, the pinon trees in New Mexico, the hot sun in Phoenix and playing his piano – They just don’t make guys like the 82nd airborne and 101st anymore.  While we grieve at his sudden departure, we all have so many memories and look forward to him greeting us again when our time comes.  Heaven just got a lot more interesting with it’s newest Vato.  Love you dad.  Natalie, Joey and Miguel.

Jose will be interred at The Santa Fe National Cemetery on Monday May 11th, 2020. Due to Covid 19 there will be no committal service. 

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