Jose was a beloved husband to Ana Olga and an amazing father to Cristy and Alex.

It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Jose, who passed away Sunday, March 1, 2009 after succumbing to an aneurism he suffered that morning. He was only 41 years of age.

Those who knew Jose will never forget his joyful spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and boundless energy, which endeared him to countless friends and colleagues over the years. He is survived by his beloved wife Ana Olga and his two children, Cristy and Alex.

 Although he was born in San Diego, Jose attended school in Mexico until he was eight years of age. After graduating from Bonita Vista High School, Jose continued his education at Southwestern College and graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in International Business. He was also a graduate of Western CUNA Management School.

A tenured banking veteran, Jose most recently served as AVP, Area Manager of the Chula Vista and La Mesa branches for USE Credit Union. Jose joined USE in 2005, and it didn't take long for the company to recognize his talent, leadership skills and business savvy. A superstar performer at USE, Jose was recipient of the President's Circle award and USE's coveted Penguin Award, an honor bestowed to the year's most outstanding employee.

A licensed real estate broker, wine enthusiast and avid golfer, Jose's other distinguished accomplishments include his service to the Southwestern College Foundation as a Board member and Treasurer, and his continued service to the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce as a Board member.

Jose had many unique characteristics that made him very special, but when he belted out his trademarked greeting – "Good morning people!" everyone could feel Jose's energy and knew success was just around the corner. His passion for motivating people and making things happen will be sorely missed. Even so, like one of Jose's closest colleagues recently said: "Jose is still cheerleading, he's just doing it in Heaven."