Ildefonso Aranda Jr.'s Obituary
Ildefonso “Al” Aranda was born in Laferia, Texas. Growing up, he worked in the cotton fields and dairy farms alongside his family. After graduating from high school, Al voluntarily joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served from 1971 to 1975. During his time in the service, Al did a one-year tour in Vietnam. He was Honorably Discharged as a Sergeant.
In 1975, Al met Miss Brenda Thomson while working at the NCO Club at McChord Air Force Base. Both Al and Brenda knew they were destined to be soul mates. They later married April 16th, 1978 and were blessed to enjoy 45 years of marriage together.
Al tended bar at El Torito’s Restaurant in Seatac Mall and Tacoma, Washington, making many friends over the 26 years. People would come from all over the Pacific North West “PNW” just to come watch Al work. Following his bartending, Al became business owner of AA Janitorial for 30 years. There is no denying Al was one hard working man. Al considered his employees his family. Al made lifelong friends and was deeply loyal to everyone he met. Al had high integrity, honesty, and strong moral principles - which he showed in all he did.
Al had a deep love for his family. Al is survived by his wife, Brenda Aranda, son Ildefonso “Al” Aranda III (spouse LeeAnn) and daughter, Jovita Aranda. Al’s brothers George Aranda (spouse Alice), Luis Aranda (spouse Dana), Johnny Aranda (spouse Elvia), and Arturo Aranda (spouse Lisa). Honorary mentions Al Roy, Brother Al (spouse Linda), Sisters San Juana, Olga, and Rosa. Grandchildren Tiana Fitzsimmons, Thomas Aranda, Ildefonso W. Aranda IV, Emanuel Aranda, Elliana Aranda. Great-grandchildren Michael Aranda, Chloe Fitzsimmons, Emberson Aranda, and many other nieces and nephews. Al is preceded in death by son William Aranda, mother Marciana Aranda, father Ildefonso Aranda Sr., and sister Maria Nyola.
Al taught us all invaluable lessons in life. Some of his wise words we will never forget and will be instilled in us forever. These are some of his words we’d like to share with you all.
“It’s not the words I say, it’s what I do.” “If you’re 15 minutes early, you’re already late.” “Did you learn your lesson?” “Handle your business.” “If you’re going to do something wrong, make sure you’re the only one who knows about it.” “Use the right tool for the right job.” “If you say you’re going to do something, you better do it.”
Some of our favorite sayings:
“What’s up with this Mickey Mouse bullshit?” “What’s up rookie?” “It’s all about the love.”
While we miss Al here on Earth, Al is beginning his new journey with our loved ones in Heaven.
Ildefonso - my husband - will always be my love, my rock, my everything.
What’s your fondest memory of Ildefonso?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ildefonso?
Share a story where Ildefonso's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ildefonso you’ll never forget.
How did Ildefonso make you smile?