Manuel ‘Mocho’ Ochoa

Manuel ‘Mocho’ Ochoa

  Manuel “Mocho” Ochoa, 72, of Hayden, Arizona, passed away, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018 at his daughter’s home in Castroville, CA.

  Manuel was born July 18, 1946 in Tucson, Arizona to Manuel and Armida Ochoa.  He attended Hayden High School and obtained his GED.  He enlisted in the United States Army on Sept. 14, 1965 and served his Country honorably for three years.  Manuel is a veteran of the Vietnam War and received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, and Sharpshooter Badge (Rifle). 

  On Sept. 27, 1969 he married the former Frances Morales in Hayden, Arizona.  Manuel was employed by ASARCO as a pipefitter.  On Dec. 7, 1992, they suffered the loss of their eldest son, Manuel Ochoa Jr.  On Nov. 29, 2000, Manuel suffered the loss of his wife of 31 years. 

  Shortly after his wife’s death, he retired from ASARCO and worked for several years as a camp host in the White Mountains.  He was an avid hunter and truly enjoyed the outdoors.  He was a certified Arizona Hunter Safety Instructor in which he taught classes for many years in Hayden, AZ.  The discipline and patriotism he learned in the Army never left him, as friends and family will attest.  Manuel’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life. The legacy of his kind spirit, passion for the outdoors, love of his family, and zest for life will live on through them.

  Mr. Ochoa is survived by his sons Jamie and his wife Kathleen of Casa Grande, AZ and Jesus “Jesse” of Memphis, TN and daughter Raquel and her husband Albert of Castroville, CA; seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and many, many friends.

  Services will be held Saturday, Aug. 18 2018 at St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hayden, Arizona. Visitation will began at 8:30 a.m. followed by Rosary at 9:30 and Mass at 10 a.m..

  Griffith Mortuary is providing exceptional family service. 101 Johnston Dr., Kearny, AZ 85137. Ph. (520) 363-5353. GriffithMortuary.com.