Larry Muñoz: The value of hard work, learning, dedication

Editor's note - This is the third in a 10-part series of profiles of area residents picked as the 10 Most Influential Hispanics in Yuma County, an annual recognition by Bajo El Sol, The Sun's Spanish-language sister newspaper.

Lifelong learning, hard work and dedication.

Those are the keys to getting ahead, says Larry Muñoz, and those are qualities he says have helped him get ahead in life as grounds maintenance supervisor for the city of Yuma Parks and Recreation Department.

A city employee for more than 36 years, Muñoz was named as one of Yuma County's 10 Most Influential Hispanics in an honors program sponsored by Bajo El Sol newspaper to recognize area Hispanics for positive contributions to their communities.

The son of Joe Muñoz, a former administrator of the city of Somerton, Larry inherited his parents' work ethic and their dedication to those around them. But he is also the product of his mother, who at 64 years of age still works in a supermarket.

"We never stop learning," Muñoz said. "I attended AWC (Arizona Western College) for a year and a half. I wanted to return to college but never did. That is why I tell young people to stay in school. To date, that is the only thing I ever left unfinished."

He added that even if someone has no interest getting an education, "you have to find out how to move ahead and to not be content doing one thing. You have to be dedicated and make sacrifices in order to get ahead."

His interest in being of service to others led him to coach sports for more than 20 years. It was during these years that he became a role model to youths and, in this way, duplicated the impact that a coach once had on his life and who helped him become a good citizen.

"I had good coaches who taught me well, and I told myself that I would take the time to teach my own children."

Muñoz, 57, still coaches, but now that he has raised his own children, he takes time to be with his grandchildren and helps steer them the way his own mentors guided him.

Muñoz's grandfather was born in Mexico and Muñoz was raised speaking both English and Spanish, which he says gave him an advantage.

"Hispanics work very hard and are not afraid to work, and many times they help others when they get ahead," he said.

"However," he adds, "we are procrastinators or we simply say we can't do it. But you can't expect that everything will be handed to you. If you want something, you have to go and get. Many times they immigrate and come here and think things are going to be easy. Above everything, we must support each other: We must always have time to give to others."