September 22, 1933 - December 21, 2024
Armida Amelia Arenas passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 91 on December 21, 2024, at her home in Sacramento, following complications from cancer and other health issues. Born on September 22, 1933, in Phoenix, AZ, she led a full and fun-filled life.
A cherished lifelong resident of Stockton, Armida attended Edison High School. She worked in the Stockton area’s agriculture fields during the summers and fall, including the Cherry Sheds as a quality control officer. For 20 years, she worked for Diamond Walnut Growers, first as a sorter and later promoted to oversee Quality Control. Her commitment to labor rights was demonstrated in 1991 when she joined the Teamsters strike and participated in a national strike tour, passionately advocating for workers’ rights across several states, including Washington, D.C., Tennessee, Iowa, and Arizona. One of the highlights of that tour was taking a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.
In retirement, she continued to give back as a Foster Grandparent with the California Youth Authority, providing academic support and mentorship to incarcerated youth for over five years.
Armida was a vibrant member of her community. Armida enjoyed bowling with the Mexican American Bowling League from 1978-1980. She was a BIG S.F. Giants baseball fan as well as a “Black Hole” fan for the Oakland Raiders. She was an active member of the booster club for Los Caballos Baseball team in Stockton for nearly a decade.
Armida also had a fondness for visiting Tahoe casinos, Thunder Valley Casino, and Jackson Rancheria Casino. Lady Luck often seemed to be on her side at Native American casinos, where she enjoyed playing the machines.
An avid singer and dancer, Armida enjoyed music throughout her life. During the 1960’s, she and then-husband, Rejino “Kino” Marquez even performed on the radio. They were also in demand at parties, where she would sing to his guitar accompaniment.
Armida’s life was rich with family connections. She is survived by her daughters, Cynthia R. Oliver (John) and Patricia Marquez; grandchildren Louis Perez, Jesus Regino (Gino) Oliver, Ernesto (Neto) Oliver, and Jazzmin Medina; and great-grandson, Ernesto Kino Oliver. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernesto and Josephine Ramirez; her husband of over 30 years, Daniel Arenas; her sister, Virginia Ramirez; her brother, Ernest Ramirez; her son, Xavier Rudolfo (Rudy) Valles; and her first grandchild, Xavier Andreas Marquez.
SERVICE
A memorial service to celebrate Armida’s life will be held on January 8, 2024, at Cherokee Memorial Park and Funeral Home in Lodi, CA. The day will begin with a private family viewing at 8:30 am, followed by a public viewing starting at 9:00 am. A Rosary and Service will commence at noon, with burial at 2 pm.
Armida Amelia Arenas will be remembered for her spirited personality, dedication to her community, and the profound love she had for her family and friends. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Arenas family.