Fred Arthur Faulkner

It is with great sadness and a heavy heart we announce the passing of Fred A.Faulkner, who left us far too soon, unexpectedly on July 21, 2026, at the age of 69. Fred closed his eyes and opened them at the feet of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Fred was born on December 11, 1956, in Compton, California, to Fred Faulkner and Katherine Faulkner (Tupling) as an only child, he grew up with a heart full of kindness. Fred met the love of his life, Bruna Pannuto, while studying finance at California State University, Bakersfield. Their love story blossomed, culminating in their marriage on June 14,1980. Their marriage was built through two people creating one life filled with family, friends and adventures. Recently, they celebrated 46 wonderful years of marriage in La Quinta, California and had planned for many more years.

Fred was employed in the convenience store business, working for Fastrip Food Stores for 43 years as the Director of Marketing. This role was a great fit for his outgoing and engaging nature, as well as his keen eye for merchandising and presentation. Fred was also a talented creator who designed and created the cartoon character logo, Guzz. His creativity and artistic talents were evident in this unique and memorable character

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Faulkner and Katherine Tupling, and his in-laws, Jean and Bruno Pannuto.

Fred leaves behind his beloved wife, Bruna; his children, Josh Faulkner (Amanda) and Katie Faulkner Hair (Adam); and his grandchildren, Axl and Kellen Hair, Emma and Jack Faulkner.

He also leaves behind cherished sister in laws and their families : Terri Pannuto, Ann Connell, Donna Ingle and Renée Baker.

His greatest joy was being a devoted family man. Fred cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren. He loved taking Josh to various sports events, giving youth basketball coaching a try. As a proud "Girl Dad," he excelled at styling Barbie ponytails for dance lessons and recitals. His keen eye for style and color made for many interior design father-daughter conversations.

Fred was a dedicated Popa, immersing himself in the lives of his grandchildren. His favorite pastimes with his grandsons Axl and Kellen were building Legos and epic squirt gun battles in the backyard pool—moments filled with laughter, fun, and love. He loved road trips with his oldest grandsons, recently taking them to the War Bird museum in Paso Robles. He was looking forward to creating memories with Emma and Jack,

He enjoyed watching the Dodgers and Rams, staying connected through texts and phone calls with his son, daughter and friends. He shared his love for travel and adventures with his beloved wife, Bruna.

Fred and Bruna enjoyed many weekend road trips traveling around CA. They especially enjoyed trips to the Central Coast visiting the wineries they were members of and picning on the Pacific Ocean. They traveled extensively, visiting Mexico, Costa Rica, Italy, Sicily, France, Germany, the Dominican Republic, England, Ireland, and Scotland. Their special travel destination was Kaanapali, Maui, which held a particular place in their hearts. He especially enjoyed scenic European river cruises, sharing these adventures with his wife and often a group of close friends.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Fred's warmth and kindness touched everyone he met. His legacy of love, devotion, and adventure will forever remain in our hearts.

Fred’s family and friends will forever cherish his memory, his love, and his adventurous spirit. He will be forever missed by his family and friends. 🥲🙏

Funeral Mass will be held on August 20, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 124 Columbus Street, Bakersfield, CA 93305.

A committal service will follow at 11:30 am at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, CA 93306.

A reception will be held at TLO Wines, 1212 18th Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to St. Francis Parish School, Bakersfield or Garces Memorial High School, Bakersfield.

Flowers may be sent to Hillcrest Memorial Cemetery.

Please leave a memory on the online guestbook.