Jose Zaragoza’s 16-year old-son Matthew Zaragoza Van Gelderen died from a head injury sustained during a Friday night high school football game. Jose and his family made the compassionate decision to donate Matthew’s organs. Said Jose, “Matthew now lives on spiritually with those who knew him and physically in the people who received his gift of life.”

Jose's Story

Jose Zaragoza was born in Mexico and immigrated to the United States as a teenager. For many years, Jose resided in San Jose with his wife Zona and their four children, where he volunteered and coached kids baseball, soccer and football. He was known as the dad with the loudest voice when cheering on his own children at sporting events.

In 2001, Jose’s work with Raley’s Supermarkets took the Zaragoza family to Manteca. There, Jose continued his community service as an active church member and scoutmaster of the Boy Scouts of America, Troop #438.

For four years the family settled in their new community. Then, on September 23, 2005, Jose’s 16-year old son Matthew Zaragoza Van Gelderen died tragically from a head injury sustained during a Friday night high school football game. During this most difficult time, Jose and his family made the compassionate decision to give the gift of life and donate Matthew’s organs.

“Matthew now lives on spiritually with those who knew him and physically in the people who received his gift of life,” said Jose.

Jose has gone on to become an active spokesperson for organ donation.