Joseph Ugalde's Obituary
Joseph G. “Pepe” Ugalde, aka “badass”, was born on September 26, 1938 and passed away on Sunday, January 24, 2016.
I lived, I loved, I tried.
This is the phrase that Joseph “Pepe” Ugalde wanted to be remembered by.
I lived. Yes, Pepe can truly say he lived life to its fullest. He was born in New York, New York and grew up in the Tarrytown’s of New York. In high school he was an avid cross countrymen and participated in the choir, chess club and historian club. At the age of 17 Pepe enlisted in the United States Army. Pepe had many, many stories about his days in the military and it was apparent this is what molded him into the person so many of us love. The military not only deepened his love for his country but also developed the loyalty for his fellow soldiers who stood next to him in the line of duty. This loyalty crossed over into his civilian life for his many friendships and for his family.
I loved. Pepe loved and took great pride in his family. He showed his love not in only the words he shared but through the simplest yet thoughtful gestures. The love of his family reflected back by his wife Judy Ugalde; daughters Kirsten Ugalde and Anja Morel; son-in-law Delbis Morel and grandchildren Steven Ugalde and Karina Morel. He also had a love for the community of Tacoma, Lakewood and Puyallup that he resided in for well over half of his life. He was a member of the Rotary Club and received the Paul Harris Fellow. In addition, to show his love for the community Pepe spent over 40 years volunteering. He spent countless hours spending time in a nursing home keeping the residents company. Throughout Pepe’s time volunteering the place that touched his heart the most was working in the many different classrooms in local school districts. Some things Pepe would do was tutor in math and English as a second language, run the chess club and make Jacob’s Ladders (a folk toy made of rectangular flat pieces of wood connected by ribbon) to hand out to the children. When Pepe entered the school, children would race to open the door for him and you would hear many young voices greet him saying “Hi Mr. Pepe” or “that’s one great guy”.
I tried. Now, this is the part of the phrase where Pepe’s humility took over. He didn’t want the credit for things that he had accomplished like volunteering, taking care of his family and friends. Yes, many times in life we try but Pepe did not only try, he succeeded in the many things he did and truly left a mark in the lives that he touched. Pepe created many wonderful and beautiful experiences with all of us which will be cherished forever. He passed away at home, as he wished surrounded by the love of his family.
A committal shelter service with military honors present will be held 11:00 AM, April 4, 2016 at Tahoma National Cemetery; 18600 SE 240th St., Kent, 98042.
What’s your fondest memory of Joseph?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joseph?
Share a story where Joseph's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joseph you’ll never forget.
How did Joseph make you smile?
