Mario Valverde

In the presence of his family, Mario G. Valverde, 83, passed away on Thursday, February 27, 2014. He leaves this world to claim his promise of eternal life with our Lord, Jesus Christ, whom he faithfully served since December 11, 1953. Born in Clovis, California, he lived most of his married life in the Salinas Valley and the Watsonville area. A humble and hard-working man, he was a servant of God and laborer in road construction. He began his road construction career of approximately 30 years with Madonna Construction in Watsonville and retired from Granite Construction in the Salinas Valley. During these years, he befriended and witnessed to many co-workers. As a spiritual leader, he was a loyal and faithful servant. As such, he served as a minister of the faith in Jesus Christ for 60 years. He served the last 45 years as the Pastor of the congregation of Templo Bethania in Watsonville. During this time, he expanded his service beyond the borders of the United States to Mexico, India and Haiti. He harbored a special place in his heart for the bretheren of these regions. As a spiritual servant he affected many lives and was a blessing to anyone who called upon him for support, which he lovingly provided, through prayer, counseling and financial aid. He was a true warrior of God. Mario is survived by his wife of 63 years, Alba. Children; Mario Jr. (Marta), Sandra, Joshua (Dora), Candy (Frank), Benjamin, Jimmy (Dora), Lorraine and Jeffrey; Siblings, Eva (David), Edward, (Irene). He was also blessed with 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Mario was recently preceded in death by his son, Eliu "Lou". Others preceding him were his sister, Lily and brothers, Samuel, Efraim, Saul and Refugio "Cuco". The Family would like to extend their gratitude to everyone that has been supportive through these difficult times. A Service honoring his life will be held on Friday, March 7, 2014 from 6pm-9pm at the Christ the Rock Church 61 N. Sanborn Rd. Salinas, CA 93905. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2014 from 10am-12pm at the same location. Interment to follow services at the Garden of Memories Cemetery 850 Abbott St. Salinas, CA 93901.