Donato Tijerina

TIJERINA, Donato - age 88, of Flint Twp., passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Monday, June 1, 2020. Due to the Covid 19 restrictions a private family service will be held at El Shaddai Assembly of God 1022 S. Graham Rd., Flint. Pastor Abe Garcia officiating. Arrangements provided by Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Rd., Swartz Creek. Donato was born April 7, 1932 in Cuero, TX the son of Jose and Nicolasa (Rodriquez) Tijerina. He married Mary Lou Adrian in Driscoll, TX on February 27, 1950. They recently had a beautiful celebration of 70 years of marriage with their loving family. He was employed briefly by Buick, then went to work for Flint DPW, retiring in 1985. Afterwards he was employed as a Porter for Superior Pontiac/Cadillac. Donato was a very hard worker and his solid work ethic was commonly known by anyone who knew him. He was a member of El Shaddai Church. He also was a member of the Carmen-Ainsworth Senior Center where he enjoyed playing cards every week and formerly a member of the Flint F.O.E. #629. Donato was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease approximately 20 years ago which eventually stopped him from the sports he enjoyed like fishing, shooting pool, and playing softball. He then began playing dominos, cards (euchre), and watching Detroit Tigers Baseball, which he often did with his family. He gave his life to the Lord 21 years ago and loved music, especially singing Spanish (coritos). He is survived by: his loving wife of 70 years, Marylou; and will be fondly remembered by his children, Donato Jr. (Cynthia) Tijerina, Daniel (Tina) Tijerina, Mary D. Vizcarra, Dora (Ben) Saucedo, Delphine T. (David) Garcia; 13 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, 7 great great grandchildren; sisters, Maria (Riley) Brionez, Sara Dominguez, Raquel (Rev. Juan) Carmona, and Pureza (Agustin) Rodriguez, and numerous nieces and nephews. Donato was preceded in death by: his parents; son, Joe L. Tijerina; grandsons, Joe L. (Chano) Tijerina, Jonas Luardo; three brothers; five sisters; son in law Ben Saucedo. Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com