Our father, Luis Heredia, was born on August 19, 1929 in Loving, New Mexico. His parents, Rafael and Dolores Heredia, moved their family to Midland, Texas where they would plant their roots. On July 28, 1951, our father married the love of his life, Raquel, and began a long and happy life together. Around 1953, a little boy, Roberto, was left in their care. He was two years old when our parents decided to make Roberto their very own by legally adopting him into their loving hearts.
In 1954 a blessing, Juan, was born. In 1955, Susana was born. In 1956, Andrea was born. Then, they decided to a break. Nine years later, in 1963, Connie was born. In 1964, the angel baby, Lolita was born. Six months after her birth, Lolita became ill and passed away. It was a very difficult time for our family, especially our parents.
In 1961, our parents left Texas and moved to California. They moved in with the Mendoza family in Woodlake, California with Raquel's oldest sister, our tia Benita. After that, our parents moved to Visalia, to San Jose, then back to Texas, and finally, in 1971, they planted their roots in Fresno. They purchased a home on Belgravia Ave in Fresno and there, created a lifetime of memories for all of the family. All of their grandchildren were raised in that home where their love radiated from that home and property.
Our father, Luis, was a master cement mason. He belonged to Union Local 188 for over fifty years. He retired in 1983 when he fell from a scaffold while working at the Avenal State Prison. He often worked long hours on all fours. If you were in a car with him, he would point out his work with pride. He provided for his family and both of our parents were very humble.
Dad enjoyed his Coors, fishing, hunting deer, playing dominoes and Gin Rummy. He loved playing his guitar and our mom was his led vocalist. They made beautiful music that will forever be cherished in our hearts. Dad was a true chicarrone perfectionist! Our father was a great historian, story teller, and character. He would always tell jokes and had quick come-backs. He definitely loved to laugh.
Our father was preceded in death by his wife, Raquel; his daughter, Lolita; his son, Juan; and his grandson, Gabriel and his wife, Wendy. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Rafael and Dolores Heredia; and siblings Maria Torres, Virginia Deandra, Dorothea Torres, Rosa Leon, Lorenzo Heredia, and Juan Heredia. His sister, Chica Tinoco, also passed away two hours after our father.
Luis is survived by his brother, Liberato Heredia; his son, Roberto; daughters, Susana, Andrea, and Connie; all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends.
He will forever be loved and will always be remembered.
