Valente Vera, 82, of Lancaster, California, passed away peacefully at home on September 15, 2024. He was born on October 15, 1941 to Valente and Fernanda Vera in Oatman, Arizona. He served 24 years active duty in the U.S. Air Force and during his military career served in Vietnam from 1966 - 1967. While in Vietnam after taking part in a classified rescue mission, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism.
He attended Pasadena City College, University of Maryland and University of Virginia. He received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Education.
He married Francisca Garay on August 31, 1968 and they had two daughters, Vanessa and Christina.
He worked as an Education Counselor for the United States Air Force and retired from active duty in 1984 and from civilian duty in 2006.
He loved traveling, Native American music and culture and was a proud Veteran.
He is preceded in death by his parents and daughter Christina.
He is survived by his wife Francisca, daughter Vanessa, son-in-law Don and grandchildren Samantha and Donovan.
Celebration of Life will be on October 1, 2024 at Joshua Memorial Park from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm in Lancaster, California.
