Jose Roel Tamez, loving Father and Grandfather, passed away on February 23rd, 2024 at the age of 79.

Jose was born on February 28th, 1944, on a ranch in Cuidad Mier, Tamaulipas, Mexico. He was born to Edelmiro and Blanca Estella Tamez, and was the oldest of seven children. Jose was raised in Mexico until the young age of 10 years old, at which time the Tamez family moved to Washington state in 1954. As a child, he spent time with his younger siblings and helping the family by working alongside his father as he worked as a farm laborer between Grandview and Pasco. Jose learned at an early age the importance of hard work and determination, which he lived throughout his working days.

Jose took on various laborer roles at Balcom & Moe before being provided an opportunity to work for the Pasco School District. In 1969, he joined the Pasco School District as a Custodian and worked at Pasco High School, Edwin Markham Elementary School, and Emerson Elementary School. He ultimately retired in 2008 after working 39 years.

In 1969, Jose married Rosa Guajardo. They proceeded to raise their family in Pasco near St. Patrick's Catholic Church. Jose enjoyed raising his children and teaching them the value of hard work. He instilled into each of them the importance of always working hard and making sure you completed whatever task you had to the fullest. He enjoyed spending time fishing with his sons and taking the family on camping trips to the Blue Mountains. He also would dedicate time to take his family on road trips to both Texas and Mexico as well. He always led by example and showed love for his family.

Jose was not only a hard worker, but an excellent cook. He enjoyed barbequing and always feeding everyone at large gatherings. Many times, he would help cater weddings, quinceañeras, baptismal celebrations, church retreats, or backyard celebrations.

Jose was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church. He volunteered much of his time to the church and was willing to help out in any way possible.

Jose is survived by his son, Lionel Tamez; daughter, Melissa Abraham; son, Ismael Tamez; daughter, Priscilla Tamez; son, Alejandro Tamez; son, Javier Tamez; son-in-law, Walter Abraham; and daughter-in-law, Colleen Wylde. He was also the proud grandfather of Victoria Abraham, Julian Tamez, Iman Abraham, Lorenzo Tamez, Joaquin Tamez, Amelia Tamez, Saphrah Tamez, Elijah Tamez, and Gabriel Tamez.

Jose is survived by his siblings, Eliamar Sanchez, Ociel Tamez, Homero Tamez, Blanca Tamez, Edelmiro Tamez Jr., and Dora Tamez.

Jose was a wonderful son, a loving brother, a great husband, a beautiful and giving father, and a proud grandfather. We will be forever grateful to have had him in our lives. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends. We know his spirit is with us always. Love you so much.