Ismael Z. Valdivia, 94, of Tucson, Arizona, previously Monterey Park, California, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2020.

Ismael, aka "Miley", was born on December 31, 1925 to Ernestine Zepeda Valdivia and Ismael Valdivia in Superior, Arizona. Ismael attended Superior High School, and took extra classes so he could graduate at what should have been his junior year. Following his early graduation, he entered the army. Ismael was stationed in Panama during most of his service time. Many major league baseball players played winter ball in Panama, and while attending those games he was able to get pictures of future stars such as Joe DiMaggio. After his honorable discharge, at the rank of staff sergeant, Ismael began his college education.

Ismael wanted to be a teacher since 6 ^th grade, and set out to be one. He initially attended East Los Angeles College, and received Associate Arts Degree. Next, he attended Mexico City College, and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree, with a major in Spanish and minor in Social Studies. During that time, he spent summers as part of archaeological digs throughout Mexico. His love of studying ancient cultures of that country lasted the rest of his life. He received his Master's degree in Counseling from Cal State College. After receiving his masters, his first teaching job was teaching elementary school Spanish in the Los Angeles Unified School District. A few years he changed positions and became an assistant Supervisor of Child Welfare and Attendance. After his retirement he continued to enjoy traveling all over the world with friends, family, but always with his wife Carmen.

Ismael met the love of his life, Carmen in a church group. They wed a few years later, and had two children, Loretta and Reuben. Carmen and Miley were blessed with two grandchildren later in their lives; Isaak and Aidan.

Anyone who knew "Miley" knew that he was the most loving father and husband a family could ask for. Ismael was preceded in death by his brother Norbert "Bert". He is survived by wife Carmen and his sisters, Irene and Virginia.

Due to COVID-19, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=IYFBM44Yhvo