Jose Manuel "Meño" Alcala

December 18, 1948 – December 19, 2024

Jose Manuel "Meño" Alcala, 76, of San Tan Valley, Arizona, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024, just one day after celebrating his 76th birthday. Born in Yuma, Arizona, on December 18, 1948, Meño was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many.

Meño served his country with honor during the Vietnam War, enlisting on January 17, 1967, and serving until his honorable discharge on March 8, 1970. His bravery and service were recognized with several awards, including the Bronze Star Medal with "V" Device.

After his military service, Meño returned to the border town of San Luis Rio Colorado, Sonora, Mexico, where he met the love of his life, Maria Cruz Lopez de Alcala. They married on June 8, 1971, and shared many of life's experiences. Together, they resided in Yuma for many years before making their final move to San Tan Valley in 2002, where Meño enjoyed his later years surrounded by family.

Meño enjoyed hunting back in the day, loved a good steak, and was known for his zest for life, often being the life of any gathering. His love of travel took him to many places, always returning with stories that would entertain his family for hours.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Maria Cruz Alcala; his daughters, Maricruz, Cynthia, and Elizeth; brothers, Margarito, Catalina, Tony and his six cherished grandchildren, Briana, Manuel, Denise †, Alyssa, Isaiah, Valentina, and Irie.

Meño will be deeply missed by all who knew him but remembered for his hearty laugh, his adventurous spirit, and his unwavering love for his family.