Jose F. Mariano, 96, of Deltona Fl. died Thursday July 19, 2018 at Deltona Healthcare facility. Mr. Mariano, a retired U. S. Navy World War II veteran was born on December 5 ^th , 1921 In Toto Village Agana, Guam M.I.  Jose is the son of Juan Quitugua Mariano and Candelaria Fejerang Mariano, both from Guam M.I. Jose was married to Damiana Nieves in New York City in 1953.

Mr. Mariano joined the US Navy in 1940. He was a Pearl Harbor survivor, serving in the south pacific fleet under Admiral Nimitz and Admiral Halsey. He retired from active duty in Honolulu HI in 1960 and returned home to Guam. He later moved his family to southern California to work as a dietician at Long Beach Naval Hospital. Mariano worked at the hospital until 1983 and was a plank holder as one of founding staff members. In his more than 40 years of service to his beloved country he was awarded: American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Theatre Medal, World War II Victory Medal, National Defense Service Medal

He is survived by daughter Anna Mariano of Deltona Fl, Linda Kimmick of Orange City Florida. His Grandsons, Kevin, Shane, Rick, Nicolas, and grand daughters, Sharon, Sharnell, 10 great grandchildren, 1 great- great- grand daughter and 1 great- great-great granddaughter.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Damiana N. Mariano; his son, Jose N. Mariano and his siblings: Vicente, Nicolas, Antonio, Jesus, Juan: Ana, Amalia and Maria.

Jose was the son of a fisherman and shared his love of fishing with his son Jose Jr. and best friend Joe Castro. He was a dedicated husband and father who was loved by all that knew him. Those who had the blessing of sharing time with him, knew his exuberance for life, and his simple joy, spending time with family and friends.

Jose loved telling his war stories, he loved to dance, his laughter resonated so much joy. He enjoyed traveling, taking trips to the casinos, beaches, boating and was always at the ready for other adventures.

Jose Mariano loved America and American culture. A big John Wayne fan he could often be found watching old westerns all afternoon. A proud and gracious man, the love of Jesus shown through him, as he touched the hearts of those he encountered forever bringing joy and smiles. He was, (as one of his care givers so correctly stated) "a beautiful soul".

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