Mario Palza passed in peace on August 15, 2020 at the age of 86. Mario was born to Reynaldo & Amelia Palza in Iquitos, Peru. He had a deep love for his country but as a young man traveled to America for better opportunities. He met his wife of 59 years, Freida, while working at Daniel Freeman Hospital in Inglewood, CA and has been a resident of Ojai since 1971.Together they raised four children. He worked in healthcare for 20 years before opening Mario’s Italian Delicatessen in Ojai and Ventura. He had a passion for exercise, food, romance languages and a strong Catholic faith. He studied the dictionary regularly to feed his thirst of knowledge. Mario was a modest man that worked hard and lived within his means.
In his retirement years he took pride in restoring his honey gold 1965 convertible Ford Mustang and cleaned the swimming pool daily even though he never swam in it.
Mario was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Michelle Palza. He is survived by his wife Freida, daughters Kathy Henson (grandsons David & Paul), Rebecca Wilson (David and grandchildren Chandley, Skyler and Jacob Logsdon), son Mario Palza (Bree) and his sister Dora Arbe,
He was proud to be called Papa Blue, a name that was given to him by his grandkids. We will miss his laughter, wisdom & gentle spirit. Forever humble...
The family would like to thank the staff of the Wellness Care Senior Living, Ojai Health and Rehabilitation and Mission Hospice for their loving care.
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.