Franko Cardoza

Born Frank M. Cardoza on November 9, 1952, in Merced, Ca., the fourth child of six. As a young boy he was most content to be outside exploring the natural world. His inquisitive spirit birthed in him a hunger for knowledge and a desire to experience the world around him. His love for floral design began early as he helped out in his mother's flower shop in Atwater. He worked daily after school in her shop until graduating from Atwater High in 1970.

A few years later while living in Fresno, Franko met the love of his life, Barbara. Through frequent trips to Yosemite they realized their passion for nature and for one another. They made a home together with their two children, Aaron and Allison. After graduating with a degree in Animal Science from California State University, Fresno Franko decided to pursue his original gifting in floral design. With his beautiful wife by his side, he opened Franko's In Full Bloom in October of 1987. Sharing each day, they discovered the joys, frustrations and triumphs of working, living and loving together. Franko thrived on creating a unique vision for each of his clients, no matter the occasion. He loved planning and designing in beautiful, exotic locations, but saved some of his very best work for Fresno.

Throughout his life, Franko was drawn to those struggling with the weight of life's problems or cast out from society. He impacted the people around him with simple, thoughtful gestures of love and concern. A intensely private man, he shared his heart with a select few, but poured out great affection and kindness to many. His greatest joy came from the time spent with his beloved grandchildren, Rebekah, Rachel, Griffin, Joel and Lauren. "Papa" taught them to appreciate the beauty of the world around them and gave them the gift of his time. Whether baking bread, hiking through the mountains or just taking time to talk, their Papa loved them dearly.

Gifted with numerous talents, Franko was a success at everything he set his hands to do. This man left an indelible mark on the world; he will be forever in our memories, carried close within our hearts. Among those left grieving his loss are his loving wife, his children, grandchildren, sisters, and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. It is impossible to say how many lives he enriched as a result of the fertile offerings of faithful friendship.

A gathering for the Celebration of Franko's Life is currently being planned, information forthcoming on the Franko's In Full Bloom facebook page.

Donations in honor of Franko may be directed to Nancy Hind's Hospice; or Saint Agnes Medical Center.