Obituary of Jose E. Zapata

ZAPATA, Jose E. of Saginaw, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 17, 2012, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 92 years old. Jose E. Zapata was born on April 15, 1920 in San Marcos, Texas to the late Trinidad and Nieves (Esquivel) Zapata. He married Sophia Diaz; she preceded him in death on October 5, 1995. He later married Espranza Gomez on April 1, 2005; she survives him. Jose had been employed by General Motors Company providing over 25 years of service. He was a faithful member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and the Senior Citizens Club. Jose loved shooting pool, telling stories, especially about his family. He has a tenacious memory. Jose also enjoyed watching baseball and Mexican music and dancing. Surviving besides his wife, Espranza; a son, Archie Zapata of Shreveport, LA; five grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; two sisters: Jaeintz (Mike) Vanagas and Gredoria (George) Castaneda; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Alejandro D. Zapata and a grandson, Zachary Zapata. FUNERAL: Jose's Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 3680 S. Washington Road. Rev. Fr. Thomas Schmied, OFMCap. will officiate. Rite of Committal will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with Jose's family at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Friday, April 20, 2012 from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. A Vigil Service will take place Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. Jose will lie in state at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com