Obituary of John Mendoza

John “Big Mex” Mendoza, 79, of Rome, passed away with his family by his side on September 4, 2021. He was born on March 6, 1942, the son of the late Fidencio and Mary (Ramos) Mendoza and graduated from RFA. He served his country in the US Army and was a decorated Vietnam War Veteran. He retired from Revere Copper. John enjoyed watching sports, especially the NY Yankees. He is survived by his children, Mark Aldaco of Marcy, Misti Rae Mendoza of Rome and her husband Teon Brown, who took amazing care of John, and Lisa Soto of Marcy; a stepdaughter, Angel and her family; six grandchildren, Christina, Alicia, Miah, Apache, Feather and River; three great-grandchildren Aiden, Noah and Eva; a sister Brenda Mendoza; five brothers, Daniel, Josef, Sal, Butch and Jimmy Mendoza; loads of nieces and nephews from the Mendoza Clan; and his all-time best friends, Buddy Valentine and Paul Zakala; and his two loving wives, Val and Donna. He was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Sam and Frank; sisters Nita, Gloria, Ruthie and Natalia; and his best friend Mike Grifasi. All are invited and children are welcome to attend calling hours from 4-6pm Thursday, September 9, 2021, at Strong-Burns and Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Rd, Rome., with a service to follow at 6pm. He will be buried at Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Feed Our Vets, 587 Main St., New York Mills, NY 13417.