Master Sergeant
Jose Manuel Lerma

At age 79, Jose Manuel Lerma joined our Lord on Friday, April 25, 2008, after a five year battle with cancer. Born in San Diego, Jose (Joe, Manuel, Moose) was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and patriot. A San Diego HS graduate, U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant retiree and 19 year civil servant at North Island Naval Air Station. Joe was a volunteer in his community. "Moose" enjoyed playing sports until the age of 75. He is survived by the love of his life of 55 years, Martha his wife, children Albert, Rebecca and Jose Jr., eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. He loved life, his family, his country and our Lord Jesus Christ. He touched many lives with his compassion and humor. He will be missed. Vigil was held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, 2008, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 1120 Cuyamaca Ave, Chula Vista. Service was at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 1st at St. Pius X Church, burial followed at Glen Abbey Mortuary, 3838 Bonita Rd., Bonita, and reception followed at St. Pius Church.

Published in the San Diego Union-Tribune on 5/1/2008.