Jose Lazaro "Larry" Mireles

Jose Lazaro Mireles, affectionately known as Larry, was born on June 19, 1958, in Houston, Texas, and passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, in Laguna Hills, California. He was a deeply cherished husband to Nathalie Mireles and devoted father to Julian Mireles, leaving behind not only a loving family but also a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering resilience.

Larry’s journey was marked by his commitment to service and education. He started his career as a military police officer after graduating high school, proudly serving his country stationed in Pirmasens, Germany, specializing in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (E.O.D). His life took a turn when an accident prevented him from continuing his duties as a police officer, but Larry did not let this setback deter his passion for helping others. He dedicated himself to empowering youth, first at the Santa Ana Boys and Girls Club, where he guided and inspired countless children. His innate ability to connect with young people led him to become a remarkable ROP teacher, imparting knowledge across a spectrum of subjects from construction to fashion design. His former students spoke fondly of him, remaining in touch long after graduation to share milestones such as weddings and new beginnings.

His teaching transcended the classroom; he was a baseball coach at both the high school level in Santa Ana and Newport Beach, fostering teamwork and dedication in young athletes. Larry’s impact on his students was profound; he never turned his back on anyone, greeting each challenge with open arms and providing support to those in need. His nurturing spirit changed hundreds of lives for the better, instilling hope and direction in many who needed it most.

Larry's generous and kind-hearted personality radiated warmth and compassion. He was thoughtful, courageous, and respectful, always ready to lend a helping hand. He was a true guardian angel to those he encountered—his volunteering at UniCamp showed his willingness to go above and beyond, comforting children and ensuring their safety. It was there that Nathalie first met Larry, sharing a mutual love for nature and a passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others.

In his personal life, Larry was fond of the outdoors, cherishing moments spent with his son Julian fishing at Irvine Lake, where their conversations were often more valuable than the fish they sought. Larry shared thrilling excursions off-roading in Trabuco Canyon, where safety took precedence, ensuring his son's adventurous spirit flourished under the watchful eye of a caring father. Larry’s zest for life extended to all aspects: he enjoyed hiking, rescuing animals, and riding horses in the beautiful Big Bear Lake area with Nathalie.

Larry was immensely proud of his accomplishments, particularly when he executed a holiday fundraiser called "Ride to the Coast." This event brought together hundreds of motorcyclists to deliver toys and donations to impoverished children at the Boys and Girls Club, creating unforgettable moments of joy for those young lives. His dedication reached those in dire situations; he saved countless students struggling with suicidal thoughts or vulnerable to negative influences. Larry’s patience, encouragement, and genuine care provided them with the courage to forge a better path toward a future filled with promise.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife Nathalie and son Julian, who will carry his spirit and teachings with them always. Larry was preceded in death by his beloved mother Juanita Ortiz Mireles and father Ignacio Mireles, who no doubt welcomed him with open arms.

The world has lost a remarkable man whose legacy of kindness will continue to thrive in the hearts of all he touched. A funeral service honoring Larry will be held on February 16, 2026, at 2:00pm at McCormick & Son Mortuaries in Laguna Hills, CA. As we gather to celebrate his life, let us remember the warmth he brought into our lives and strive to reflect his unwavering strength and love for others.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=header-btn-donate-now), or D.R.E.A.M Animal Rescue (https://www.dreamar.org/donate), both of which reflect Larry’s lifelong commitment to helping children and animals.