Obituaries

Joe Campos

On Christmas Eve, the Lord welcomed home Joe Campos of Sunland. He was a true local growing up across from Descanso Gardens and never lived far from where he finally rested. Although Joe was 74 at his time of passing his joking manner led those around him to believe he was 105 years old. He passed away with his wife of 53 years, Corine Campos, sitting faithfully by his side in his home on Jardine Street in Sunland. This is where he and Corine lived for more than 40 years and raised five magnificent children. The oldest is Joseph Campos, followed by Lori Corona, Patricia Hitt, Leah Avila and Dianna Muneton. Along with his children’s bereavement each and every one of their spouses – Sandy Campos, Robert Corona, Bobby Hitt, Jeff Avila, and Manuel Muneton – have experienced a great loss.

Joe spent his life as a gardener, first working with his father and brother on a family route then working for the school district as a senior gardener for more than 34 years when he retired. His love for the outdoors made his profession an enjoyable experience.

Joe played an active role in each of his grandchildren’s lives and led by example  how to be respectful of others. He was best friends with his first grandson Phillip Corona. Jennifer and Joseph Campos came next from his only son. Then came Danielle Corona and CorriRose Hitt – his first granddaughters to go to college. Nicole Avila came next and traveled with Grandpa to Hurst castle. Christopher Hitt entered the world to help grandpa hang his shelves straight. Following him Stephanie Muneton invited him to supervise her Christmas decorating every year. Jeffery Avila and Melissa Herrera brought him his first great-grand son, John Jordan. Anthony Muneton and Grandpa bought a boat together and did a lot of fishing but not much catching, still they often tried. The baby of the family is Thomas who is gifted in sports that Grandpa loved to watch. Whether his grandkids were playing football, basketball or baseball or racing motorcycles, performing dance or piano recitals, or he was just teaching them how to cook, Grandpa always loved to participate in their lives.

Joe lived to become a very loved man by his family, friends, co-workers, and the strangers he took food to at Hansen Dam. His wonderful humor attracted people to him and also kept the family smiling. Joe’s complete love and dedication to his family and friends was clear and he left knowing that his purpose on earth was well served.

The funeral was held on Thursday, Dec. 30 at Eternal Valley Mortuary in Newhall.

Louis T. Grimaldi

On the evening of Dec. 22, Lou Grimaldi was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, with whom he had a long and personal relationship. Born in Providence, R.I. on July 18, 1931, Lou migrated to California with his parents Louis and Susie, brother Anthony, and sister Marie. He graduated from Hoover High School in 1950 and went on to serve in the United States Army. Lou then worked in the Glendale area for many years as a building contracter, music promoter and most recently as an usher at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church.

He was predeceased by his two sons Louis and Edward and his brother Anthony. Lou is survived by his sister Marie Grimaldi; his two beloved grandchildren Cherish and Brandon Rivera; and uncle Pasquale Grimaldi in Rome. Additionally, Louie’s long and colorful life will be remembered by his sister-in-law JoAnn, nephews John (Mickie) and Jim and their children, as well as numerous cousins and life-long friends.

Lou’s love of family, especially his grandchildren, was one of his most endearing qualities and those who really knew him will long remember how he enjoyed a good cup of coffee, which was always best best served along with a country music song. He had a heart of gold and was constantly willing to lend a helping had to anyone in need. His friends and family will miss his smiling face, the twinkle in his eye, and his generosity to others. We all say “Arrivederci” yet know that up in Heaven, Lou is looking for a building to somehow remodel.

Funeral Mass will beld Jan.11 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Montrose followed by Internment at Grandview Memorial Park.

Crippen Mortuary Directors