Rest In Peace

Joaquin Sagarnaga Obituary June 2, 2023

The family is announcing the passing of Joaquin Sagarnaga of Huntington Park, California on
Monday, May 15, 2023 at the age of 90. He was surrounded and cared for during his final
months by his loving family and caregivers.

Joaquin was born in Hurley, New Mexico on July 3, 1932. At the age of six his mother
relocated to Los Angeles where he spent the majority of his life in Huntington Park, California.
With his passing, Joaquin has joined his mother Mariana A. Sagarnaga and father Guadalupe
Sagarnaga. Joaquin leaves behind his wife Elvira of 65 years, three children (Conrad, Sandra
and David), five grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Also leaving behind two loving
and devoted sisters (Elia and Lupe) along with numerous nephews and nieces.

Joaquin remained a proud Air Force veteran. He was stationed in Seoul, Korea and served as
a radio technician during the Korean War from 1952-1956. He continued his patriotic service
in various locations including Long Beach Naval shipyard, Fort MacArthur in San Pedro, while
eventually becoming a quality control inspector for space and satellite communications with
Hughes Aircraft.

Retiring at age 55, Joaquin lived a long and prosperous life, traveling the world with his wife
for over 20 years. Some of his travels included Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe,
China, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

His passions included working on his rental properties, tinkering in his many garages, and
having a home built in Bull Head City, Arizona where he and his wife vacationed for 20+
years allowing her to be closer to her sisters. He was an avid Laker fan, loved to watch
boxing, go camping, play chess in tournaments, listen to classical music, enjoyed dancing
with his wife, and share many stories about the Korean War. In addition, he was committed to
voting in every election and keeping up with politics. He was a great conversationalist with
anyone and about any topic. His main priority in life was taking care of his wife, especially
during his last few years. He was a life-long supporter of Santa Martha Church, Cathedral
High School (his alma mater), Boys Scouts, and countless other charities.

Although never receiving a formal college degree, he remained committed to higher
education. He attended Long Beach City College, El Camino College, and participated in
various other trainings and classes related to aerospace which earned him many certificates
of achievement.

In honor of his memory, the family is holding a celebration of his life on June 3rd where he
will be laid to rest with his mother Mariana at Resurrection Cemetery. His daughter Sandra
would like to extend her appreciation for all those who were a part of his life, in particular
especially those that remained committed to his care during his final months.

"It is better that they need you because they like you and not like
you because they need you."

"Es mejor que te necesiten porque les gustas y que no les gustes
porque te necesitan."

Joaquin Sagarnaga