Pedro Del Cid, 99, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, in Maricopa, AZ, surrounded by the love of his family. A man of nature and deep resilience, Pedro leaves behind a legacy of hard work, determination, and unyielding devotion to those he cherished.
Born on April 13, 1925, in La Reforma, Sonora, Mexico, Pedro was the son of Sofia Del Cid and was raised by his aunt, Virginia Del Cid. Life on the ranch instilled in him a relentless work ethic from a young age, as he left school after third grade to support his household. Despite this, Pedro taught himself to read and write, sparking a lifelong determination to improve his circumstances.
In the early 1950s, Pedro’s resilience shone as he pursued the dream of a better life in the United States. Pedro made several attempts to immigrate to the United States, each time encountering obstacles but never losing hope. His ingenuity led him to a breakthrough— dressed in his finest suit that helped him blend in as a “businessman.” he boarded a bus and pretended to be asleep, avoiding questions from the conductor. Arriving in the U.S. in the early 1950s, Pedro settled in Mesa, AZ, working tirelessly in agriculture, supporting his daughter Vicki and family in Mexico. By 1958, his hard work, dedication, and integrity earned him permanent residency.
Pedro’s life took a joyful turn when he met his wife, Margarita, in the mid-1960s. They married on January 14, 1968, in Tubutama, Sonora, Mexico, and together, Pedro and Margarita raised five children— Pete Jr., Leticia, Jesus Francisco “Frankie,” Raquel, and Lucia. They built a family rooted in love and resilience and instilled in them the values of perseverance, humility, and gratitude, as well as passed on values of strength and faith.
With a natural green thumb and love for the outdoors, Pedro found joy intending to plants and feeding the birds. His passion for agriculture led him to a fulfilling career as a groundskeeper, first with Marriott Hotels, purchasing stocks with Marriott, and later at Apache Wells Golf Course in Mesa, AZ, where he dedicated over 25 years of service. Even after retiring and into his late 80s, Pedro continued to work hard, and his commitment to his family never wavered.
Pedro’s love of music and quiet moments brought him peace. He enjoyed Javier Solis and old-time boleros, often playing the guitar, accordion, or harmonica—his favorite activity: sitting outside under the warm Arizona sun, appreciating the beauty of nature.
Pedro’s legacy is carried on by his six children: Vicki, Pete Jr. (Lisa), Leticia (Raymond), Frankie (Melissa), Raquel (Craig), and Lucia (Rafael); eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; Pedro joins his beloved wife, Margarita, and many loved ones who preceded him in eternal rest.
Don Pedro was a man of strong character. Intimidating at times, he couldn’t complete a sentence without a curse word or two but had a great sense of humor and a good heart. He is deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. His life is a reminder that perseverance can overcome any obstacle. May he rest in peace.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Bunker Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ. Visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with burial to follow at Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center St., Mesa, AZ.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
It was an honor to know Pedro, and I am blessed to be counted as part of the family… He was certainly a great father and a man who loved deeply. We will miss him very very much.
So sorry for your loss. What a strong man to of lived 99 years. It’s because of the love from his family and friends that kept him here on earth for such a long time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Never met Pedro, but heard enough about his kind heart and strength to live life to its fullest through daughter Leticia. Rest in peace Pedro.