Albert Mendez Jr

Albert Mendez Jr., affectionately known as Pato, passed away peacefully at the age of 76 on January 18, 2025. For 42 years, Mr. Mendez served the Arizona community as a devoted educator, earning the love and admiration of students, colleagues, and friends across the state. Known for his quick wit, jokes and talent for storytelling, he could make anyone laugh until their sides hurt. While he loved music and dancing, his greatest passion was education. Rising from humble beginnings in Superior, Arizona, Albert earned a Master of Arts in Education and was honored with the Faculty Emeritus distinction from Maricopa Community Colleges in recognition of his exceptional dedication and contributions to teaching and learning. 

Albert is survived by his two daughters, Mia Marie Edrozo and Ami Alia Mendez, both of whom hold master’s degrees—a testament to his unwavering encouragement and influence. His daughters were the light of his life and remained by his side in his final hours, accompanied by their husbands, Manuel Lerma Edrozo Jr. and Robert Jason Bailey, whose steadfast support brought comfort and strength to their family during his last days. He is also survived by his beloved sisters, Dora Herr and Verma Pastor along with their children. Albert’s legacy continues through his five grandchildren—Alec Thomas McCormick, Zachary Scott Williams, Alyssa Marie Williams, Manuel Adam Edrozo, and Marisa Lilian Edrozo—and his great-granddaughter, Mylie Alexis McCormick. His presence, love, wisdom, and unforgettable personality will be deeply missed by all who knew and cherished him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 1st, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018 followed by a reception from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM at Corona Ranch, 7611 S. 29th Ave, Laveen Village, AZ 85339

And at the end of the day, Pato would say: “I’ll take the soup…”

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the non-profit organizations that Albert, Mia and Ami support:

ASU Los Diablos: Mia currently serves on the Los Diablos Board of Directors. Los Diablos was established in 1984 and co-founded by family members Ed and Verma Pastor and Ricardo Provencio. Los Diablos is the official Latino chapter of ASU Alumni and is an affiliate of the ASU Foundation. Los Diablos raises funds to provide financial assistance and support to outstanding college students of Arizona who attend and graduate from ASU. Mia was a Los Diablos scholar from 1988 - 1992 while attending Arizona State University.

Arizona Health Care Foundation: Ami serves on the Arizona Health Care Association Board of Directors and has been in the senior-living profession since 1989. Her experience and lengthy career in long-term care positioned her to help her dad, grandfather and other family and friends navigate the healthcare experience.

The Arizona Health Care Foundation (AHCF) was established in 1997 and enhances the lives of residents and the people who care for them. AHCF sponsors programs throughout the year for residents and their long-term care staff in furthering their education, and fulfilling a resident’s last wishes through the “live a dream” program.