Mariano M. Parra

Mariano M. Parra, 85, of Greenfield, California, passed away on April 7, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born on November 20, 1940, in Ameca, Jalisco, Mexico, to Antonio Parra and Maria Molina. He grew up in San Antonio Matute, Jalisco, Mexico. Mariano attended school through the sixth grade before leaving to help support his family – a reflection of the strong sense of responsibility and dedication that would define his life. As a young man, he developed a love for animals and apprenticed under a veterinarian, with whom he worked for three years.

Mariano was known for his kindness, great sense of humor, and generosity. From 1968 to 1970, he participated in the Alliance of National Workers of Mexico in the United States of America, better known as the Bracero Program, working as an agricultural laborer in various states. In 1973, he settled in Greenfield, California, where he built a life for his family and worked for 30 years as a forklift driver at Basic Foods.

He was deeply committed to his community and was actively involved in the California Migrant Education Program (MEP), where he served as a board member. During his time in this role, he worked to help migrant families access free school meals and bilingual education. He strongly believed in the power of an education and instilled a love of learning in his children, all of whom graduated from King City High School.

He loved gardening, and his prized flowers were often placed at the church altar. He cared for a variety of fruit trees. He was known for cooking and barbecuing, especially his carnitas, tripitas, carne asada, and pollo asado, which brought family and friends together. He will be fondly remembered for his storytelling, which left many laughing with tears in their eyes.

To many, Mariano was more than a friend – he was a trusted advisor and father figure. His wisdom, warmth, and presence touched countless lives.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife Irma C. Parra; his children Julio C. Parra, Sr., Blanca I. Parra Aguila and Antonio Aguila, Martha D. Parra and Mario A. Chavez, and Mariano Parra, Jr.; his grandchildren Christopher M. Apparito, Julio C. Parra, Jr., Ezra J. Parra, Angel A. Parra, and Max Z. Aguila, and his great grandchildren Eliana S. Parra and James V. Apparito.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Antonio Parra and Maria Molina, and his siblings, Guadalupe Parra and Irma Parra.

A reception and celebration of life will be held on April 15, 2026, at Memorial Hall, 615 El Camino Real, Greenfield, CA 93927.

SERVICE INFORMATION:

A Visitation will be held, 6pm, Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 27 S. El Camino Real, Greenfield, CA 93927

A Recitation of the Rosary will be held, 7pm, Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 27 S. El Camino Real, Greenfield, CA 93927

A Funeral Mass will be held, 10 am, Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 27, S. El Camino Real, Greenfield, CA 93927

Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery

If you wish to order flowers contact Floreria Milenio Flower Shop 803 Oak Ave, Greenfield, CA 93927 831-674-1387 Milenio Flower Shop

For additional information, please contact Eddington Funeral Services, King City, (831) 385-5400.