Adolph “Sam” Mendoza, of Ceres, California, passed away Thursday, February 4, 2016 in Modesto, California, at the age of 78 following a brief hospital stay. He was surrounded by his loving family when he passed.

Sam was born April 15, 1937 in San Fernando, California to Ramon and Remedios Mendoza. He had six brothers and seven sisters and was raised in San Jose, California. He went on to serve in the U.S. Navy where he was stationed in San Diego, CA.

In 1970, he met and married the love of his life, the former Noelia M. Guerra. The newlyweds settled in San Jose. In 1982, Sam and Noelia relocated to Ceres with their three children. He became a member of St. Jude’s Parish in Ceres.  Sam retired from Tri-Valley Growers in 2001. His hobbies included dancing with his wife, gardening, outdoor grilling with family and friends, often visiting Disneyland and taking frequent trips to the casino. Sam and his wife loved to travel. Destinations included Mexico, Europe and frequent trips to the beach. Sam loved sports and was an avid SF 49er and SF Giants fan.

Sam is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Noelia Mendoza; three children: Dianna Larson (Michael), Anthony Mendoza, Sandra Moody (Justin), and four grandchildren: Victoria Mendoza, Andrew Mendoza, Bryan Larson and Jacqueline Larson. He is preceded into death by his parents, three brothers and a sister.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Lakewood Funeral Home and Memorial Park. The Rosary and viewing will be held at 6pm on Thursday, February 11, 2016, at Lakewood Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Hughson, CA.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Jude’s Catholic Church, at 10am on Friday February 12, 2016, located at 3824 Mitchell Rd., Ceres, CA, with a committal following at the Lakewood Funeral and Memorial Park, Hughson, CA.