Florentino Dela Cruz Carrera Jr., affectionately known as “J.R.”, departed from this world on March 10, 2024, at Stanford Hospital in Palo Alto, California. Born on August 12, 1963, in Mapandan, Tarlac, Philippines, to Eugenia and Florentino Carrera Sr., J.R. immigrated to the United States with his family in 1979, initially settling in San Francisco, California. For nearly three decades thereafter, he called Hayward, California, his home. Throughout his life, he became an indispensable resident of the Bay Area, embodying its values and enriching its fabric with his presence.
J.R., an alumnus of Balboa High School, embarked on a diverse professional journey. He diligently cultivated his culinary talents, mastering the art of cooking at esteemed restaurants throughout the Bay Area. For a decade, he devoted himself to service as a bank clerk at Union Bank in Oakland, exhibiting unwavering dedication. Additionally, he also displayed his prowess in sales at Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Regrettably, in 2012, he made the difficult decision to resign from his position due to health reasons.
In the year 1990, J.R. united in matrimony with his cherished wife, Zenaida (Ana) Fernandez, in a captivating ceremony held in their hometown of Mayantoc, Tarlac, Philippines. Shortly thereafter, the couple ventured to the United States, making their home in San Francisco, California. Within a year of settling in the city, they joyfully welcomed their precious daughter, Mary Janne (MJ), in the autumn of 1992. J.R. embraced fatherhood with unwavering devotion, celebrating each of MJ's milestones with pride. Fondly referred to as "the chef of the house" and an ardent supporter of the Golden State Warriors and San Francisco 49ers, J.R. was renowned for his culinary expertise, particularly showcasing his passion for Italian and Filipino cooking.
J.R.'s leisure pursuits reflected the varied interests he pursued professionally. Whether immersing himself in cooking or cars, the true source of his happiness lay in the presence of his beloved family and friends. Whether at festive gatherings or intimate gatherings, J.R. relished every moment spent with his loved ones.
With his beloved family by his side, J.R. passed away due to chronic respiratory failure. He leaves behind cherished memories that will forever reside in the hearts of his surviving family: his devoted wife Zenaida (Ana), beloved daughter Mary Janne (MJ), adored granddaughter Reagan, son-in-law Paul, loving mother Eugenia, and siblings Jaimie, Omet, Daniel, and Vilma, alongside numerous nieces, and nephews.
Viewing services in honor of J.R. will take place on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Holy Sepulchre Funeral Center, located at 1051 Harder Road, Hayward, CA 94542.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery - Mausoleum of the Apostles, 26320 Mission Blvd, Hayward, CA 94544, on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 10:30 am, followed by interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery - St. Clare section at 11:30 am. A reception will follow at Vintage Clubhouse located at 38 Vintage Circle, Pleasanton, CA 94566, immediately after the burial.
