Mateo H. Avila passed away peacefully the morning of April 3rd, 2018, surrounded by his loving family.  Mateo was born on September 21, 1920 in San Antonio, Texas.
   Mateo served in the U.S. Army, and was a World War II veteran.  San Bruno National Cemetery will be his final resting place, as his brothers before him, who were also laid to rest at this cemetery. All his brothers have served in different branches of the military.
“Pop” as he was called by his children, enjoyed watching both baseball and football and was an avid fan of San Francisco’s Giants and 49ers.
   Pop also loved being surrounded by his children and grandchildren and was often called “Grandpa Candy” because he always had candy on hand for his 29 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great grandchildren.
He often enjoyed taking trips with his family, and especially loved going to Jackson Rancheria. He was very much into music and often used to listen, sing along, and dance to Mexican music with his beloved wife of 66 years, Ernestina A. Avila.
   Survived by his daughters Teresa Clarke, Esther Perez, Tina Dipple, Jenny Martinez, Josie Pruneda, Maggie Morales and son Ray Avila.
   Mateo was preceded in death by his wife, Ernestina A. Avila, and his sons John, Mateo Jr.(Matt), Rito, and Sam Avila.
   Mateo had seven brothers and three sisters who all preceded him in death and was the last living child of the late Ygnacio and Maria Avila.
   Pop/Grandpa Candy will be greatly missed by knowing he is finally reunited with his loving wife, sons, grandsons and parents, makes his passing a little easier.
   A mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, April 13, 2018, at 11:00  a.m. at St. Anthony Catholic Church.  Graveside will be Monday, April 16, 2018, at
11:00 a.m. at the Golden Gate National Cemetery, 1300 Sneath Lane, San Bruno, CA.

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Thursday, April 12, 2018