Fred A. Ochoa

Born in 1940 in Tucson, Arizona, Fred lost his dad at the age of six (to cancer). As a young boy (the eighth of nine children), he learned to hustle to support his family. As a batboy for the local baseball team, Fred earned silver dollars, always keeping one silver dollar for himself (so he could buy a Schwinn bike to ride to school and to the ballpark) and giving the rest to his mother. He joined the military (serving in the Army for 4 years), made a living as a mover and later as salesperson, and married the love of his life, Marie Laos. For 52 years they were inseparable, until Fred lost his battle to COVID-19 on August 6th. 

After 19 days of battling the virus, Fred passed away at home, high in the hills of Pinetop, Arizona, surrounded by his loving family. He was carried home on the wings of angels -- past the clouds and stars – where no one sees. Our family will miss being a part of the things he loved to do like walking in the pines hand-in-hand with his beloved wife, Marie; going fishing or sitting around the campfire with his children and grandchildren; going golfing with his grandsons; playing with his great-grandchildren; cooking out at the grill or making his famous tacos and salsa for the family; meeting up with his high school friends (the Chasers) and reminiscing about the good old days; sharing and laughing at his own jokes; simply starting his day with a cup of coffee and reading the newspaper, and of course in the family rivalry of ASU vs the UofA.

Fred Ochoa’s life made a lasting impact on all those he met. His greatest joy was his family. He was a role model to his children (and the countless softball and baseball players he coached) and a powerful influence in their daily lives. His fatherly advice: never quit, a real man shows his softer side, use humor to resolve conflict, and above all family is everything. 

Fred’s legacy is his beautiful family. His memory will live on through the souls of his loved ones.  He is survived by his wife of 52 years - Marie Ochoa, daughter - Tina Ochoa, son - Fred Ochoa, granddaughter - Mercedes Armenta, grandsons -  Zachary Armenta, Michael Ochoa, David Ochoa, great grandchildren – Ahryan, Adan, Austin, and Ahylina, and sister Rosalie Palko (John Palko).  He is preceded in death by father – Jesus T. Ochoa, mother – Rosario O. Ochoa, brothers – Carlos, Ysario, Robert and Joseph, and sisters – Olga Saufley, Delia Cumpston, and Mary Rose Rush.