Melchor Badillo

Melchor Badillo Vasquez, the true patriarch of our family and affectionately known to all as everyone’s favorite cowboy, was called home to rest on October 25, 2026, leaving behind a profound legacy of love, faith, family and laughter.

Born on January 6, 1932, in Los Sauses, Chihuahua, Mexico, Melchor was the seventh of nine children raised by Francisco and Carmen Vasquez Badillo. Growing up on the ranch, Melchor developed a lifelong love for horses as he spent his youth riding them. He also carried with him fond memories of life on the ranch that included his fiercely protective dog, Candado “Lock”, who refused to let anyone onto the ranch without approval.

It was through family ties that Melchor met the love of his life, Consuelo. While his older brother Isabel visited his girlfriend Adela at a small local mobile kitchen run by her family, Melchor crossed paths with Adela’s younger sister, Consuelo. The two began a sweet courtship, secretly leaving love notes hidden under rocks to pass messages without getting caught. Their secret messages blossomed into a devoted lifelong romance, and they were married in 1951.

Together, they built a vibrant life across two countries. Starting out in Cd. Juárez, Chihuahua, Melchor worked as a taxi driver while they welcomed their first eight children: Irma, Humberto, Alfredo, Blanca Estela, Guadalupe, Maria Elena, Melchor Jr., and Carmen. Seeking new opportunities, Melchor moved his family to California in 1966, working as a skilled mechanic and welcoming two more children, Juan and Connie. In 1974, they settled into their very first family home in Huntington Park, California. Wanting to stay deeply connected to their roots, they bought a second home in Chihuahua in 1982, spending decades traveling back and forth and filling both places with countless cherished memories that their children and grandchildren will treasure forever.

Melchor lived life with a generous heart and the playful spirit of everyone’s favorite silly cowboy. A humble man to his core, he never hesitated to help a person in need. Whether he was playing a hand of poker, shooting pool with his family, trying his luck at the casino, or tuning into a boxing match, nothing brought him more joy than bringing smiles to his loved ones and sharing a good laugh.

Diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2023, Melchor faced his battle like a true cowboy with bravery, humor, and grit. He never allowed his illness to dictate his life, continuing to bless everyone around him with his playful spirit and huge heart.

Just hours before his passing, he took center stage at his great-granddaughter’s quinceañera. He proudly took the floor for their traditional dance, carrying on the sweet tradition he had honored for generations of girls in the family before her. True to form, he stayed until the very end of the night, soaking in every bit of the music, love, and celebration. Content after an evening surrounded by family, Melchor returned home with a full heart, fell asleep peacefully, and was called to his eternal home the morning of October 25th.

In heaven, he was joyfully greeted by his beloved wife, Consuelo; his children, Melchor Jr. and Blanca Estela; his parents; and his eight siblings: Isabel, Guadalupe, Alfredo, Anselma, Leonardo, Amapolita, Margarita, and Cruz.

He leaves behind an astounding legacy that will echo for generations. Melchor is survived by his 8 children, 33 grandchildren, 57 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Services honoring Melchor Badillo Vasquez will take place on Sunday, November 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM.