Joey Orlando

Joey Michael Orlando 37, of Dos Palos, passed away on November 14th, 2022 in Merced. Joey was born in Merced, California on March 1st, 1985 to parents Cathie And Tony Orlando, of Dos Palos. Joey was preceded in death by grandparents, Emilio (Ace) and Shirley Orlando, uncle Vence Orlando, and Grandparents Bonnie Curtis, Randy Robertson and Kellow Jett.

Joey is survived by parents Tony and Cathie Orlando, sister Amanda (Lorenzo) Walker, aunts Debbie Orlando, Tammy Merriman, uncle Paul Jett, cousins Austin Merriman, Jared Merriman, Andrea Borelli, and Joey’s sons, Ares Michael Medina and Nico.

Joey, as we all know was a social butterfly, always on the go with something to do. Which is what has led all of us here today, either being part of his family or becoming one his friends throughout the years. He started his friendships with some of you in Tiny Tots and T-Ball. Joey was active in Bryant band, sports, rollerblading and even tried snowboarding a few times. He loved skakeboarding the most. His mom would take the boys on trips to the skatepark or he would just skate all over town. Either way, him and the boys would definitely find trouble where they could.

Then came high school and the girls, oh the girls. His sister remembers all the phone calls and hearing the giggling before, "Is Joey there?", to only hang up on them. She wasn’t their biggest fan. He loved stirring up trouble, playing pranks and his music up loud. You could always hear Joey coming before you saw him. If it wasn’t the music blaring from the speakers, was the truck hauling ass around the block. And that smile, that smile he had we will never forget. You also cannot forget about that laugh that came along with it. So many friends, too many to name here. You know who you are. And then He finally graduated...by the grace of God, but he did it.

After high school, he moved to Merced with friends and made lots of new ones. He had good jobs along the way. There was a warehouse in Merced, later on to Westside Equipment/CTM Like his dad. He helped make those tomato machines and his dad would sell them. Of course, there were a few others along the way.

Joey had a passion for weightlifting and thrived in his environment, making it happen on his own, while inspiring, motivating and encouraging others. He had big plans, ambitions and dreams for his future in weightlifting. He was a natural.

Joey was an adventurous and a free spirited person. His personality and spirit were larger than life. He was funny, with a witty sense of humor and infectious smile. He was respectful, kind, and sweet. He had a heart of gold and wore his emotions on his sleeve. He was determined and had a love for life and those around him. He always encouraged and rooted for everyone in need regardless of what he was going through. Although he was a social butterfly, he had a timid side to him, soft spoken, gentle and generous, which is a side he didn’t show to many people.

Later on in life, Joey took a path that was different than most. Ultimately, that path took him from us all way too soon. I think that everyone can agree on one thing. Joey was deep down a good man with a good heart, the same ol’ Joe. He is a man who is loved by his family and all of his friends.

We would like all of you to take the best of Joey and hold him close to your heart. There are no goodbyes. We have heard so many comforting words from everyone and we thank you. May he fly high with the angels and shine bright as the stars.

Never Say Goodbye There can be no goodbyes for us It'd be too painful, dear Our connection still lives on Although you’re far from here I miss the times that we once had But one day, once again I'll hold you close and laugh with you I just wish I knew when Each moment til that day arrives Until my time is through I'll miss you more than words can say And always think of you I'll look for you among the stars, And each dawn's pastel sky, And whisper words of love to you But never say goodbye - kp