Francisco Valenzuela Paredes

Frank passed away at his home on September 30, 2023 at the age of 103. He was surrounded by members of his family and is survived by his children Frank L. Paredes, Margaret Porter, Mark Paredes, Veda Jones, Becky Paredes, his many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and many more friends and comrades. Frank was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Artemisa Paredes and his son Frank A. Paredes. He is remembered for his loyalty and service to his country, his guitar playing and singing, his colorful jokes, youthful approach to life, and sacrifice for others.

Frank was always on the move. He spent his childhood in Douglas, Arizona before joining the Army at the age of 17. Frank was a proud survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor, was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War. After his military service, Frank lived in Monterey, California and worked in several professions including as a firefighter and bricklayer before moving to Merced, California. He continued his patriotic service through his work as the bugler with the Honor Guard, proudly serving as the bugler at veteran funerals at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella.

A performer at heart, Frank enjoyed being the center of attention, whether with his brothers debating over which branch of the armed forces was the best, singing and playing guitar for various family functions, telling jokes, or being awarded for his military service which often times included an interview for television, he loved the limelight. Frank was also giving to others. There are many who refer to Frank as their grandfather due to his willingness to provide assistance when needed and carried the same loyalty and service to others as he did for his country.

A stubborn force to be reckoned with; unrelenting for being who he was and doing what he wanted; loud, funny, intelligent, elegant. There is so much more that could be said, but in the end, what he did was make our world brighter. Thank you for your commitment to country, family, friends, and fellow soldiers. We love and miss you.

Frank will be celebrated and laid to rest aside Artemisa Paredes and Frank A. Paredes at Evergreen Cemetery on Friday, October 27, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Elks or Veteran/Military charity of your choice.

A recitation of the holy rosary for Francisco will be held Friday, October 27, 2023 at 10:30 AM at St Patrick's Catholic Church. A funeral mass will occur Friday, October 27, 2023 AT 11: 00 AM. Burial will Follow at 12:15 PM at Evergreen Memorial Park. A reception will be held Friday, October 27, 2023 at 1:00 PM, at the Elks Park 360 Wardrobe Ave Merced CA 95341

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stratfordevansfunerals.com for the Paredes family.