Joe Santos

Joe Santos, 88, of Gilroy, California, passed away on September 15, 2026. Born April 1, 1938, in Cedros, Faial, Azores, Portugal, Joe immigrated to the United States in 1958 where he landed in Merced CA milking cows. Later he met the love of his life, Lucy Soares, in San Jose and married April 19, 1964. During the 62 years together they built a life rooted in family and hard work.

Joe was the proud owner and operator of Santos Concrete in the San Jose Bay Area and later owned and operated Frazier Lake Livestock in Gilroy. He was one of the founders of the Portuguese Athletic Club in San Jose, where he played soccer. While Joey and Lori were growing up, Joe was a devoted supporter of the Gilroy FFA. He also enjoyed traveling the world and taking trips to casinos.

Joe’s legacy includes the love he gave and the strength he brought to everyone around him. He is survived by his wife, Lucy Santos; his children, Joey Santos (Linda) and Lori Santos; his grandson, Cameron Pywtorak and his three siblings and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Little Joey Santos; parents, Jose Santos and Maria Gomes Santos; and two siblings.

A Rosary and Mass will be held on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at 10:00 AM at the San Juan Mission, followed by graveside burial at San Juan Bautista Cemetery.