Luis Jose Banuelos

Luis Jose Banuelos was born March 1, 1928 in Los Angeles, California to Luis and Maria (Gutierrez) Banuelos. He passed away Thursday, March 4, 2010 in Tecate, Baja California, Mexico.Luis grew up in Lincoln Heights and attended Lincoln Heights High School. At the age of 17 he joined the US Army and served honorably in World War II. Following the war, Luis met his sweetheart, Maria Esperanza Gerardo. They were married on June 18, 1950, in the historic La Placita Church in Los Angeles, California. They eventually made their home in Hacienda Heights, California and raised eight children.Luis was self employed as a furniture maker and owned and operated California Chair Manufacturing for many years in South El Monte. He greatly enjoyed singing, dancing, and working on cars. His dogs were also an important part of his life--he loved his dogs!Luis is survived by his dear wife, Maria Esperanza; daughters, Barbara Alexander, Clevia Galtman, and Victoria Herrera; sons, Javier, Tracy, and Joe Banuelos; 25 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Lorenzo Banuelos; daughter, Kathi Riggin; and granddaugther, Andrea Alexander.Viewing will take place Monday, March 15th from 4-7 pm at White Emerson Mortuary, 13304 E. Phildadelphia St., Whittier, with a Vigil Service to immediately follow at 7 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am the following morning, Tuesday, March 16th at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 8545 S. Norwalk Blvd., Los Nietos, California. Graveside Services will begin at 1:30 p.m. the same day at Riverside National Cemetery (Staging Area #3), 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, California.You may leave a condolence for the family by selecting 'Sign Guestbook' at the top of the page.