Sylvester "Sal" Flores

Sylvester (Sal) Flores passed away Monday, May 18, 2015 at the age of 83. His final days were spent with his family sharing precious memories. He left behind the love of his life, Sharon. They were married 39 years.

Sal, of Spanish decent, was born May 21, 1931 in Chico, CA. He was the middle son of three children. He was preceded in death by his mother Mary Lucena Flores and father Joseph Flores, along with his older sister Mary Blair. His parents migrated from Spain to work in the sugar fields of Hawaii earning their citizenship.

Sal left behind his brother Richard Flores (wife Joane). His children from a previous marriage: Stephen Flores (wife Marla), Mary Biasotti, (husband Jim), Michele Silva (husband Bob), Jonathan Flores (wife LuAnn). Added to the family are three of Sharon’s children: Robin Chaney, David Pengilly (wife Michelle), Kristie Steventon (husband David). Together they shared 18 grandchildren: Jennifer, Jeffrey, Sarah, Zachary, Hannah, Nathan, Matt, Nicholas, Ashley, Joshua, Zachary, Tyler, Shelby, Megan, Mason, Mia, Matt, Chris, and two great grandchildren, Ezekiel and Isaac.

Being a United States Marine was one of his proudest achievements. He served in the Korean War as a decoder. Sal lived by the saying, “Once a Marine, Always a Marine.” Often times he shared stories of his time served.

During Sal’s younger years, he enjoyed boxing and playing football. He was also an accomplished singer and one of his highlights was singing at the Chrystal Cathedral.

Sal had many hobbies which included: skiing, fishing, playing cards, gambling, traveling, and going to many Fresno State games.

Sal started out as an owner/operator of a prune orchard in Durham, CA. While farming, he was also in sales. Because of this experience, it allowed him to become a successful vice president of Colonial Western Insurance Company.

Sal was a very caring and family oriented man. He enjoyed the company of others. He was outgoing and had a quick-witted sense of humor.

Celebration of life will be held at Millers Memorial Chapel in Visalia, May 30, 2015 at 2:00pm.