Alan Julian Nevarez, a bright and joyful pre-school student in Miss G's class, has left a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Born in Tucson, AZ, on February 13, 2019, Alan brought immense happiness and love to his family and friends until he peacefully passed away in Tucson on March 14, 2024.
In his short but meaningful life, Alan created countless cherished memories with those around him. He greeted strangers with a friendly "hi" wherever he went and would also approach other children and say, "hi friend, do you want to play" and start friendships. He adored having quarters for gum ball machines and his wallet so he could make little purchases that brought him joy. His love for his tablet, indulging in ice cream, and meticulously eating the white stuff out of his Oreo cookies showcased his playful and endearing nature. Alan's kind spirit was evident through his willingness to share with others.
He had a special teddy bear that he loved his entire life and affectionately called him, "Teddy." Teddy never left his side and Alan took such good care of his little companion. He would make sure that Teddy was protected by saying, "safety first, Teddy" every time they rode in the car together. Teddy brought comfort and security to Alan and is now providing comfort to his mama.
His daddy was his hero. He admired his daddy and wanted to be as strong as him, wear his hat like him and help him do things like fix the car.
Alan adored his mama. He would affectionately grab her face and express his love to her. They had a special unbreakable bond.
A beloved only son and grandchild, Alan was the pride and joy of his family. Those who survive him include his devoted mama, Sharon De La Puente; loving daddy, Alan David Nevarez; doting maternal grandparents, Sal "Grandpa" Cazares and Fabiola "Nana" Cazares Garcia; caring paternal grandparents, Ted "Grandpa" Nasser and Ana "Mom" Nasser; uncles Joshua Cazares-Garcia (affectionately known as "Nino Shashua") and Mathias Nasser; along with his treasured teddy bear companion, "Teddy."
Alan's early years were filled with laughter and curiosity as he embarked on adventures at Tolson Elementary School in Tucson. He recently celebrated his 5th birthday at his school with his classmates. He was given a birthday crown with his name and the number 5 on it. He felt so special and wanted to wear his crown all day. He possessed a remarkable personality characterized by playfulness, charisma, a great sense of humor, often delighting others with his catchphrase "are you seriously?" His passion for numbers led him to proudly count from 1 to 100 and memorize his mama's phone number along with screen passcodes. He was also enjoying learning activities like reciting the alphabet and attending his speech therapy sessions.
In his car rides he would say, "Alan get's a song and then mama get's a song" and request his top four favorite songs, Waka Waka (This is Africa) by Shakira, Baby Shark, Gummy Bear Song and Titi Me Pregunto by Bad Bunny. Alan was the first to get a dance party started by hitting the dance floor with whatever song they played.
Among Alan's favorite pastimes were going to the beach, taking car rides, playing with his Hot Wheels cars, visiting amusement parks like Disneyland and Legoland, exploring the Children's Museum, and experiencing the magic of meeting Santa at the Polar Express. Nights spent at the swap meet held a special place in his heart. He loved his birthdays especially blowing out the candles on his cake as well as everyone else's!
Some other favorite places to travel to were the Pinetop Mountain House and Las Vegas but he would always enjoy returning to his "Eleven" home. He also enjoyed going to the splash pad, Peter Piper Pizza, Dave & Busters and Chuck E. Cheese where he would carry his game cards in his wallet. A free-spirited little boy but very aware of having to follow rules. Before he would cross the street he would say, "stop, look right, look left." He was also so appreciative of everything that was given or done for him. He would be so grateful and thoughtfully show his gratitude by always saying, "thank you."
He was able to experience his very first and only field trip to the Tucson Zoo on March 7th where he fed the giraffe's and rode the dolphin on the carousel. He also recently made a trip to Mount Lemmon with his grandparents and uncle Mathias where he was able to play in the snow.
As we gather to honor Alan Julian Nevarez's life and legacy, we fondly remember a young soul who touched our hearts deeply. Though he may no longer be physically present among us, his spirit will continue to shine brightly through the memories he created and the love he shared. May we find solace in the joy he brought and hold onto the lessons of kindness and joy he taught us.
Services to commemorate Alan's life will be held at Martinez Funeral Chapels in Tucson with a visitation from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Rosary at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20th. A Mass at Sacred Heart Church will be conducted on March 21st at 11:00 a.m. before proceeding to Holy Hope Cemetery for a graveside service where Alan will find eternal rest among fields of peace. In his memory we will release balloons like he would do after visiting the Dollar Store and buying one.
In our hearts forever, Alan Julian Nevarez will be deeply missed but never forgotten.