Joseph R. Juarez

Joseph R. Juarez, age 42, of Willmar, passed away unexpectedly Monday, Jan. 17, at his residence in Willmar.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 27, at Peterson Brothers Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family are preferred. Arrangements are entrusted to Peterson Brothers Funeral Home. www.petersonbrothers.com

Joseph “Joey” Rojelio Juarez was born on May 6, 1979, in Weslaco, Texas, the son of Maria Florez. He grew up and lived in Willmar, Minnesota for most of his life. Joey’s sons were the light of his life and loved them dearly. Joey also had a great love for animals, specifically cats, but he would never admit to this. Joey had trials and tribulations in life along with deep love and much laughter. We remember Joey for being a loving father to sons, his loyalty to his friends and family, and his never-ending love for his mother. If Joey loved you, he loved you to his core. Joey’s legacy will live on through the people he loved and his love of art. Joey had a sensational talent when it came to drawing and has left us with this piece of his beauty. His sense of humor and contagious laugh will live on in the memories and stories to be told.

He is survived by his two children, Jace Hansen-Juarez and Maleise Juarez; his mother Maria Florez; his sisters, Luz (Chris Holm) Juarez; Anita (Sam) Mazurek; and one brother, Joshua Florez; two nieces, Layla Holm, and Grace Mazurek; and two nephews, Jack and Henry Mazurek. Joey is also survived by many cousins and friends who loved him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Luz and Onesimo Juarez.