On January 12,
2019, Chris Miranda was called home to be with THE LORD, OUR SAVIOUR, where
there is no more death, no more sadness, and where illness does not exist. He
is with OUR FATHER, where there is only LOVE and where he is rejoicing in GOD'S
Glory. Chris lived a full life; he loved his family and his family adored him.
Those who knew him knew he put his life in extreme danger several times
trying to save others. Some examples are him catching a 200 lb. man,
along with his family, as he encouraged them to jump from the second floor of a
burning apartment building. Also, he instinctively dove into the
treacherous Tanena River in Alaska to save the life of a mother and her son, as
she was struggling to stay afloat, while being swept away by the undertow.
Chris loved to
fish and hunt. While in the Army and stationed in Alaska, he brought home
fresh Salmon, Grayling, and Trout, several Moose, Caribou, and one beautiful
Buffalo to help feed his growing family. One Moose was the largest he
had ever seen. He tracked it on a self-guided hunt and had to go into
town for reinforcements to pack it out. He respected the lives of animals
and taught his family how to hunt. He had plenty of time to hone in on these
skills as he lived in Alaska for about 13 years.
He was a man of
all trades. He could transfer the lines from complex architectural drawings
into reality. Chris could do it all from plumbing, to electric wiring,
marble and stone finishing, concrete work, drywall, taping and texturizing,
lay cinder block and stucco, framing and cabinetry work. His goal was to
pass on his knowledge of the trades, work ethic, respect for others and
survival skills to his children. And so, he did, as all of his children
can attest. These skills have proven useful in their lives; for that each
one is grateful and honored to call him dad.
Along with being
strong and courageous, he was kind and giving. He had a huge heart
for those in need. Just one of many examples was a time when he and his
family were on their way back to Alaska with days left in their journey, when
he drove upon a family on the side of the road. They were in need of
tires to continue on their way which was a long journey as well.
This family wasn’t in a position to provide for tires at that time, and
without any intention on payment for replacement, Chris gave them his
spares and helped put them on. The next town was several hours away and
without hesitation Chris set back out on the road. He had faith that
the Lord would provide a safe trip for both families. He lived his entire
life that way. Another time on Christmas Eve, Chris found a family stranded
on the road and brought them back to his house for dinner. Not only did he and
his family open their house, but Chris also had his children share their presents
with the other kids. It was a life lesson that each of Chris’ children will
always remember.
One aspect of
Chris' life that really stood out, was his sense of humor. If he didn't
joke with you and give you a hard time, he wasn't being himself. He
loved to joke and was notorious for the colorful nicknames and words he used to
describe his family. His family cherishes their silly nicknames and how
their Dad and Grandpa would make everyone laugh. He will be greatly
missed for that. His family adored his smile and to hear his jokes and
laughter.
He is survived by
his greatest success, his loving wife of 68 years, Dora Miranda, and their
eight children and spouses: Yvonne & Sam Henderson, John &
Margaret Miranda, Ronald & Linda Miranda, Connie & Michael Lopez,
Richard & Elaine Miranda, Stanley Miranda, Frank & Tammy
Miranda and Doraine & Harold Messias. Chris lived to see five
generations of children. He had 24 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren,
6 great-great-grandchild and many beloved extended family members.
He
is the son of Santiago and Magdalena Miranda and was the youngest son of 12
brothers and sisters: Sofio, Bences, Andres, Neffie, Jose (Joe), Ysidra,
Cecil, Isabelita, Ramona, Elisia and Sanovia (Sobie). He is survived by his
loving sister, Elisia Trujillo.
Visitation
for family and friends will be held on Thursday, January 17, 2019, at 1:00 P.M.
at the Truth Tabernacle United Pentecostal Church. Services will follow at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor
Joe Lucero officiating. Interment will
be at Vista Memory Gardens Cemetery with Military Honors. Serving as Casket Bearers will be John
Miranda, Ronald Miranda, Richard Miranda, Stanley Miranda, Frank Miranda and
Audon Trujillo, Jr.