Joseph "LaLa" Arenivar was born into eternal life on Tuesday, January 25, 2022. He is now in the presence of the Lord with his parents Josephine and Joseph Arenivar, sister Josephine Torres, and brothers Alfonzo Arenivar and Ernesto Arenivar.  Joe was born and raised in Pittsburg, California; a town he loved, cherished, and supported.

Many of Joe's shared childhood memories were playing ball with his brothers and friends in the neighborhood. His immense athletic ability afforded Joe opportunities in education and in sports. He garnered a football scholarship at the University of San Francisco (USF), where he earned an undergraduate degree. Joe was part of the famed 1951 USF Dons football team, which refused an offer to play at the Orange Bowl because it would mean eliminating the team's African American players from joining them on the field.  This act would later bestow all team members, including Joe, a Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters and began Joe's vocal belief in equal rights that continued throughout his life. Joe's accomplishments on the baseball field at USF were acknowledged and he was inducted into USF's Hall of Fame. Joe signed with the the New York Yankees clubhouse in 1954. He served in the military and after an honorable discharge he eventually returned to his hometown.  Joe had a 34 year career as a teacher, coach, and administrator with the Pittsburg Unified School District.  He also served as a Pittsburg School Board Trustee for 23 years.  This elected position allowed Joe to continue his commitment towards equality, student mental health issues, and students with disabilities.

In 2018, Pittsburg Unified School District honored Joe by naming the new baseball field after him. Watching the Pirates play on his field gave Joe a great sense of pride.

Joe had a strong belief in God and attended church regularly.  He had a passion for running and for many years could be seen jogging through the streets of Pittsburg, sometimes training for a marathon.  Joe enjoyed a good laugh and was always quick to share a story and a joke with friends and family.  Through the years, Joe organized numerous family games and sing alongs during the holidays. He greatly appreciated the company of his many nieces and nephews.

Of all of Joe's accomplishments, he was most proud of his family. His unconditional love was felt by each of those that survive him: his loving wife Olga, his three devoted children: Camille Arenivar (Mike Costanza) of Pittsburg, Sam Arenivar (John Hanson) of San Diego, and Danielle Arenivar Kamrud (Dan Kamrud) of Clayton, grandchildren Nicole Stigamire of Concord, Destinee Davi of Davis, Lukas and Sarandon Kamrud of Clayton, and great-grandchildren Aubree and Rylee Bergstein of Davis.  And his siblings Carmen Vera, Elvira DelFavero, and Jess Manuel Arenivar.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 4, 2022 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm with a rosary at 4:00pm at the Pittsburg Funeral Chapel. Funeral liturgy Saturday, February 5, 2022 at 10:30am at St. Peter Martyr Church in Pittsburg. A celebration of life will follow at Joseph P. Arenivar Baseball Field at the Pittsburg High School. A burial with military honors will be held at a later date at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon.