Olivarez, Juan Manuel's Obituary
Juan Manuel Olivarez Sr, 74, passed away on September 8th, 2024, in Houston, Texas. Juan was born in Lamesa, Texas on October 4th, 1949, to Claro Olivarez and Cansuelo Garza. Juan was a great husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He was married to Irma Rivas Olivarez for 55 years with whom he built a beautiful family.
Juan's younger years were spent out in the fields harvesting cabbage and other produce before he moved to Houston where he had a distinguished career as a welder. He dedicated many years to his craft before retiring to focus on his true passion: his grandkids and his family. A devoted husband and father, he was known for his love of singing, dancing, drinking a few beers and was known to shed a few (just a few) tears at every special event. He loved cooking his barbecue briskets, joking with his family and making sure that he shared his special seasoning. He was the first to dance at quinceañeras and weddings as he loved being able to put on a suit, boots and even a cowboy hat.
In his retirement, Juan enjoyed having the ability to drop off and pick up his grandkids from school. He would leave so early trying to be the first in line because he didn't want his grandkids waiting to be picked up. He always put them first. On the weekends, he loved visiting his favorite casino - Coushatta and would go every chance he got. Affectionately known as “Padrino” or "Pino" to many, a title he proudly wore since he loved them all. To his wife and children, he was known as “Papo,” a term representing him being the king of the castle, displaying his deep affection and pride for his family. He will always be remembered as a kind, loving, and family dedicated man.
Juan is survived by his wife, Irma Rivas Olivarez; his two daughters, Olga Gardea and her husband Victor, Sandra Moreno and her husband Freddie, and his only son Juan Olivarez Jr. and his wife Nidia. He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Kimberly "Kim" Olivarez, Juan “J.J.” Olivarez III, Victor Gardea Jr., and Jayda Nicole Olivarez. He also leaves behind his step-grandchildren, Francisco & Jacob Gardea, Meagan & Nathan Moreno, along with 4 brothers, 5 sisters, many nieces and nephews and a host of other family and friends who will hold his memory close.
The family wants to Thank everyone for the outpouring support they have received during this difficult time and hope that you can come and join them in celebrating his life.
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