Jose Carlos; Advocate of Health Care for Latinos

Jose Carlos, an advocate of Latino health care who chaired the California Health Facilities Commission from 1979 to 1985, has died. He was 65.

Carlos died Wednesday at USC University Hospital of pancreatic cancer.

“Jose Carlos was a great friend, a trusted adviser and a consummate good citizen,” said California Senate President Pro Tem David A. Roberti (D-Van Nuys). “He was a tireless, dedicated and good-humored advocate for public health and community empowerment.

“I will miss him and so will the Californians young and old who are better off because of his great work,” Roberti said in the prepared statement. “But we will never forget him.”

A health professional throughout his adult life, Carlos began as an X-ray technician. He retired in 1986 as director of affirmative action and community relations for the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services, but continued as a consultant to county health leaders.

At his death, he was president and chief executive officer of Laguna Management Group, and sole proprietor of Jose Carlos & Associates consulting firm.

He was active on committees and groups in Montebello, Los Angeles County and elsewhere in the state.

A prayer vigil will be held Monday at 7:30 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Church, 1901 S. San Gabriel Blvd., San Gabriel. A funeral Mass will be celebrated there Tuesday at 10 a.m., with internment at Resurrection Cemetery, 966 N. Potrero Grande, Montebello.

Carlos is survived by his wife, Rosa, and four daughters, Vivian, Monica, Nina and Christina.

The family has asked that any memorial contributions be made to the Jose Carlos Memorial Scholarship Fund, 5430 E. Beverly Blvd. Suite 250, Los Angeles, CA 90022.