Still reeling from the shock of such a sudden loss, the family of Guadalupe Gomez Nila will lay him to rest on Friday after the 60-year-old farmer died after falling into a sinkhole.
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office says the 15-foot wide, 12-foot deep sinkhole opened suddenly, likely a result of continued irrigation and erosion. Nila was standing on a dirt road between farm plots when the earth opened beneath him and he fell in.
Known to his close friends and family as Lupe, they say he worked for Sossaman Farms for over 20 years with no plans to retire anytime soon.
His daughter Sonia Hernandez says tears aren't the way to honor her father.
“He always joked with everybody, he loved to make us laugh," Hernandez said.
Lupe leaves behind a huge family with his wife, eight children, 27 grandchildren and a dozen great- grandchildren.
"He was well known and well-loved and it's hitting everybody hard." said Hernandez.
His family is asking for prayers and support for funeral services. You can donate here.
