Obituary of Vincent Lerma Zuniga Jr.

Vincent Lerma Zuniga, 86, passed peacefully on May 15, 2024. He was a beloved father, husband, grandfather, uncle, and friend who will be remembered as a kind, humble, and gentle man with a quick-witted sense of humor. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Vincent was born on August 6, 1937, in Hollister, California. He attended local elementary schools and graduated from Hollister High School in 1956. In high school, he participated in football, track and field, and was a member of Future Farmers of America (FFA). He went on to attend Cal Poly before enlisting in the United States Army. During his years in the service, he was stationed in Texas, Washington, and Taiwan before returning home to Hollister. He began working as a carpenter apprentice and later started his own business as a building contractor. He left a legacy of homes and buildings throughout San Benito County. Throughout his career, he was known for his exceptional work ethic and passion for helping others learn the trade. He worked building homes for over 50 years, completing his last home right before his 70th birthday. More than anything, Vincent was devoted to his family. He married Sally Ruiz in 1961 and they were married for 52 years before her passing. He and his wife Sally traveled to Mexico and Canada and took many weekend trips to their favorite destinations Lake Tahoe and Santa Barbara. Together they raised their two daughters, Yvonne and JoAnne. Vincent loved spending time with his daughters and grandchildren; sharing memories of his childhood growing up in Hollister, taking them on trips throughout California, attending school events, and making them laugh with his funny sense of humor. He was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement throughout their lives. After retirement, he enjoyed traveling, watching his grandchildren participate in various sports and activities, exercising, and attending Baler sporting events. He especially enjoyed coffee visits with his sister and brother at the family ranch and Starbucks. He was an active member of his community, and along with his wife Sally, volunteered and supported many causes for the youth of his community. Vincent is survived by his daughters, Yvonne Perez (David) and JoAnne Kaplansky (David), and his grandchildren, Adrian and Marcos Perez, Ana and Reece Kaplansky, honorary granddaughter Bria Heintz, brother Aurelio Zuniga, and numerous nieces, nephews, and Godchildren. Vincent was preceded in death by his wife Sally Ruiz Zuniga, his parents Vicente and Josefina Zuniga, brothers Ruben and Gilbert, and sister Sally Quinones. A rosary will be recited at Grunnagle Funeral Home at 9:30 am on Thursday, May 23. A funeral mass will follow at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church at 11 am and burial at Calvary Cemetery. Donations can be made to the Zuniga Family Scholarship which supports graduating seniors at Hollister High School in care of Grunnagle Funeral Home.