Juan Francisco Matrecito

Juan Francisco Matrecito, a cherished and beloved father, grandfather, and brother, was born in Nogales, AZ on July 23, 1944, and went home to be with the Lord on August 8, 2025, at the age of 81.

He is survived by his 3 daughters Angelica, Brenda (Javier) and Iracema (Daniel). 11 grandchildren, Juan-Daniel, Deyanira (George), Desirae (Michael), Arianna (Nina), Brianna, Cecil, Anissa, Anthony, Alexander, Sebastian, Zemirah. 4 great-grandchildren Zarah, Elida, Samuel and Kaia. Brothers Carlos (Patty), Henry (Barbara), Pat (Carmen), and sister Magdalena. As well as many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents Candido and Esabel Matrecito, ex-wife of 13 years Irma Carillo, grandson Michael-Anthony, siblings Joe, Rocky, Susana, Carolina, and Mary.

Juan (Vito) AKA “Frank” was raised in Patagonia, AZ and graduated from Patagonia High School in 1964. He enlisted in the Marine Corps immediately after high school and served 4 years during the Vietnam War, receiving the Good Conduct Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross and National Defense Medal, and completed his service at the rank of Sergeant. As a civilian he worked for the Asarco Mines and in construction before retiring in Tucson, AZ.

Juan was a humble man of faith. He was a kind, loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Always willing to help anyone in need, never expecting anything in return. He loved calling everyone just to say good morning, even if it was in the afternoon. He loved his Country and was a very proud American, who always stood for the National Anthem or pledge of allegiance, wherever he was. He loved spending time in his hometown of Patagonia, especially during the 4th of July when he got spend time with a lot of his siblings, nieces and nephews. He loved starting his day with a hot black cup of coffee, his sweets and his favorite meal was carne con chile. He loved attending Sunday service, whether in church or watching on TV. Juan was a punctual man, who always said please and thank you, and taught his daughters and grandchildren to do the same. He loved his westerns and stayed active until he was no longer able. He is incredibly loved and will be dearly missed.

When thinking about what to write about our dad we all agree that he was such a kind, humble and patient dad with three girls we are sure he needed to have a lot of patience. Dad hadn’t been driving in some years but we will all miss seeing the joy that it brought him to drive around in his light green 1975 GMC Sierra truck. The drives and adventures in the Coronado National Forrest to pick oregano and bellotas are some of the best memories we will hold on to. When we were little we would get so excited because no matter where you were in the house you could hear the sound of the engine as he was coming home from work and we would shout “daddy’s home” even though he was still down the street. Thank you Dad for being the most amazing dad and Tata and just an amazing human in this world. You will truly be missed and we thank God that he picked you to be our dad to all three of your girls.

We love you dad.

Services will be held on Friday August 22, 2025 from 12pm-2pm at Avenidas Cremation and Burial, 1376 W St Marys Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745, with celebration of life reception to follow at San Ignacio Center in Old Pasqua Community, 785 W Sahuaro St Tucson, AZ 85705.

Our father will be interred at the Veterans Cemetery in Marana on a later date. We our working to confirm that date and will provide an update when the date has been confirmed.