Clarence "Greg" Darapiza, 76 years old from Ventura, California, Entered his eternal rest with Jesus, his lord and savior, on August 28th 2026 with is wife by his side, reading scriptures and playing his favorite song.
Greg was born August 29th, 1949 in Delano, California to Tommy and Betty Darapiza, and Paul & Pat Rosales.
Greg grew up in Delano, California, went to Delano High School, and graduated in 1968.
Greg went to enlist in the US Air Force, but the recruiting office was closed. He saw the US Marine Recruiter, who scared him because he was so big, so he joined the US Navy and served on the U.S.S. Hissem.
He worked in the Grape Field during the Cesar Chavez movement, where it had originated.
He married his first wife, Sharon, and moved to Ventura. After his divorce, he worked at Vetco Oil, met his second wife Mitzy Echeverria, then got married September 21st, 1985, and had two sons, David Paul and Tony Throop.
He was involved with his church in Delano, California, and also attended College Heights and South Coast Fellowship churches. He volunteered at South Coast Fellowship in the office, as well as with AWANA, Child Care, and VBS.
He loved sports, including Tennis, Softball, and Bowling. His favorite team was the L.A. Chargers Football team (whether they won or lost!), the Special Olympics, and coached Soccer and Baseball. He loved watching all his children involved in their sports; baseball, soccer, football, track & field, and always supported their teams.
He loved child care with all the kids, that are now adults with children of their own.
He is survived by his wife Mitzy of 40 years; his sons David Paul and Tony Throop; his siblings Norma Plum of Oregon, Barbara Wade of Arizona, Tommy Darapiza, and Lori Yap from Santa Maria and his brother-in-law Anthony Adrian Morales.
He is preceded in death by his parents Tommy and Betty Darapiza and Paul and Pat Rosales; his brothers Laddy Darapiza and Ronald Darapiza; his sisters Valerie Montez and JeaAnn Trimble, his Uncle Phillip and Aunt Peggy Flores; and Leena, Tsuki, Spencer, and Scout. He will be missed by many nieces and nephews, numerous cousins, beloved friends, and numerous adopted kids to our heart.
The family would like to thank the Assisted Living nurses Jackie and Raylene. What amazing friends you were in supporting and taking care of both of us.
Services will be held at Journey Church Ventura, 4050 Market Street, Ventura, on September 26th, 2026 from 10am-Noon. Reception will follow immediately in the church. PLEASE NO DARK COLORS OR SUITS, colorful dresses and Hawaiian shirts encouraged.
Arrangements are under the direction of BOYKO & REARDON TELEGRAPH ROAD MORTUARY & CREMATION.