Francisco Santana-Meza

With broken hearts, we share the passing of Francisco Santana-Meza, who left us far too soon at just 18 years old. He had just graduated from Byron Center High School and was full of dreams, determination, and loved God and the people around him.

Francisco was the kind of person who made everyone feel seen and valued. He was fun, full of life, and had a heart big enough to carry everyone else's pain without ever showing his own. He loved deeply, laughed loudly, and lived fully.

He was the beloved son of Jose Manuel Santana Cruz and Magdalena Santana-Vanegas; a younger brother to Jose Jesus Meza Vanegas; a big brother to Jose Manuel Santana-Meza; and engaged to Evelyn Prettyman, who brought him so much joy, there wasn’t a day they weren't together. Speaking of joy, his dog Joy was his constant companion and best buddy with whom he shared his love of food - a daughter to Evelyn and him.

Francisco loved the gym. It wasn't just a hobby; it was his passion. He dreamed of being a powerlifter, and he poured his heart into every workout, always chasing progress, always striving to be better. He was a devout Christian who tried his best every day to spend time with God. He wanted to be a biblical husband and father as God would want him to be.

There are no words that can truly capture the space he filled or the silence he leaves behind. Francisco touched so many lives in his short time here. We will miss his hugs, his jokes, his strength, and the way he made everything feel just a little more hopeful. He will always be remembered, always be loved, and always be missed.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Monday, June 16, 2025 at Cook Funeral Home (Byron Center Chapel), 2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at the Byron Center Chapel, with visitation from 1-2 p.m. prior to the service. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their online guestbook.