Frank S. Lucero

Frank was born on May 7, 1929, to Rosa Salazar and Phillip Lucero. He graduated from Phoenix Union High School. Frank proudly served in the U.S. Air Force as a B-17 Airman until the end of WWII, where he continued to serve his country fighting in the Korean War. Frank completed his military career with the National Guard in 1956. He then had a fulfilling career with the Phoenix Water Department until retiring in 1984.

Frank married Jessie Dobson and together they had seven children. He later remarried Cathy Waddell where her four daughters joined and completed the family that he was so very proud of.

He looked forward to spending time with his lifelong friends on their annual hunting and camping trips; sharing their stories that followed for years. Later in life, he and Cathy developed an enthusiasm for adventure on the seas by taking cruises with their friends to explore the world together.

A TRUE Patriarch.

Frank put his family above all else until his last day. His undeniable resilience, quiet strength, deep honor, and strong spiritual belief made him the genuine, kindhearted legend that was admired and respected by all. His larger-than-life personality and quick wit embodied who he was at his core. Whether he was “kicking it a little high or a little low”, he was always putting smiles on the faces of everyone who loved and adored him.

Frank is survived and missed by his 7 children, Angela Shaver, Frank R. Lucero, Carol Zetterberg (Eric Stevens), Linda Hendrix, David E. Lucero (Raelene), Joanne Pribyl, & Lisa Spradling (Mark). His 4 stepchildren, 18 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, 3 step great grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren. His legacy will carry on forever and remind us of how blessed and grateful our lives truly are because of him. Greatly loved, deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at A.L. Moore Grimshaw Mortuary, located at 710 W Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, Arizona, 85013. The service will take place on January 16, 2026, starting at 11:00 am, with a reception to follow.

Frank's final resting place will be at Saint Francis Catholic Cemetery, located at 2033 N 48th Street, Phoenix, Arizona, 85008.

Donations in memory of Frank S. Lucero can be made to Hospice of the Valley and St Jude Research Hospital. Please see the donation links below.