Juan Carisalez

As family and friends will certainly attest, there was nothing Juan Carisalez wouldn't do to serve those around him. Whether helping a neighbor find work, lending a hand to someone in need, or simply welcoming others with his warm smile and generous spirit, Juan lived a life centered on faith, family, and service. His love was fierce and unconditional, and his generosity knew no limits. Deeply cherished, Juan will be forever loved and remembered by all who knew him.

Juan made his entrance into the world on September 28, 1946, in Elsa, Texas. His early years were not easy, but taught him the importance of maintaining a positive outlook no matter the circumstances. As a young boy, he worked alongside his family in the cotton fields, learning the value of hard work. The challenges he faced helped shape the determined and hardworking man he would become. Family was central to Juan’s life from the very beginning, and he was especially close with his mother. These formative years laid the foundation for a life marked by perseverance, faith, and devotion to others.

A new and exciting chapter was about to open as Juan met the young woman who would forever hold the key to his heart. Her name was Macrina Martinez, and the two met as migrant workers in Michigan at the time. Macrina was drawn to Juan’s quiet strength, unwavering sense of responsibility, excellent work ethic, and handsome smile. Their relationship blossomed, and they soon fell head over heels in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Juan and Macrina were united in marriage in Kalamazoo in 1980.

As their family grew, Juan embraced fatherhood with pride and purpose. He thrived in his role as a father to Juan, Oralia, Griselda, and Eliza. He worked tirelessly to provide for them and was determined to give them opportunities he had never been afforded himself. Having only received an elementary-level education himself, Juan encouraged his kids to excel in school. He was so proud to watch each of them graduate college.

Juan also knew how to make life fun. His children remember riding on the tractor while he mowed the lawn and spending winter days climbing and playing on the towering snow mounds he piled high for them. Whether celebrating birthdays, holidays, or other occasions, Juan loved making memories and delighted in finding the perfect gifts for those he loved.

As the years passed and his children moved to different states, Juan treasured every phone call and FaceTime conversation. He’d answer each call with a great big smile and replied to each “I love you” with “I love you more,” a promise he faithfully lived out every day.

Helping others was one of Juan’s greatest passions. His generosity extended far beyond financial support. He helped countless people as they established new lives in the U.S., finding them jobs, homes, and opportunities. He never sought recognition or praise. Instead, he humbly served wherever he saw a need.

In his free time, Juan enjoyed some of life’s simple pleasures. He loved watching boxing matches and classic Western films, and was a fan of Elvis Presley and John Wayne.

As we gather to reflect on the overflowing life of Juan Carisalez, it is easy to celebrate a man who made the world better through his kindness, generosity, and steadfast faith. He was a devoted husband, loving father, faithful friend, and a trusted mentor to many. Juan approached life with gratitude, joy, and a commitment to those he loved. His bright smile, warm hugs, and servant’s heart will remain treasured memories for all who were blessed to know him.

Juan Carisalez, age 79, died on June 5, 2026. He leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory, including his wife of 46 years, Macrina; children: Juan (Laura) Carisalez, Eliza (Greg) Crenshaw, Oralia Carisalez, and Griselda Carisalez; grandchildren: Esperanza, Mariela, and Juanito Carisalez, Greyson Crenshaw, and Adan, Noé, and Giselle Aponte. His love, guidance, and devotion to his family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Please join us at a Life Story Visitation on Thursday, June 18, from 5 PM – 7 PM at Betzler & Thompson Life Story Funeral Homes, 60900 M40, Paw Paw, (269) 657-3870. The Rosary will be recited at 7 PM. Mass will be celebrated Friday, June 19, at 11 AM, at Immaculate Conception Church, 63559 60th Ave., Hartford. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Lawton. Celebrate Juan’s life online by sharing your favorite photos and memories on his dedicated web page at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial donations may be made to National Ataxia Foundation.