Alberto Valdez Jr.

Albert “Al” Valdez, known affectionately as “Big Al,” passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on March 16, 1945 in Del Rio, Texas, Al spent most of his life in Fresno, California, where he built his home and career.

For the majority of his career, Al worked for Haydon Construction as a construction superintendent. He was also a proud member of the Local 294 Labor Union in Fresno for over 50 years. Al loved his work and formed close bonds with those he worked with.

On the weekends, Al could always be found fishing, working on his boats, building in his workshop, or washing his truck. Al’s favorite pastime was fishing. He proudly displayed the catch of a lifetime on the wall in his living room, a largemouth bass. He loved spending time on the water, whether it was fishing on his own at Millerton, or taking his family out on the boat at Bass Lake. Al was known for his ability to tell a joke and his quick wit. He always knew how to have a good time!

Al is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; his daughter, Veronica Valdez; his grandchildren, Acantha Aragon Contreras, Casarra Aragon, Dereck Velasquez, and Anessa Bittu; and his great-grandchildren, Amari Ellard and Dereck Velasquez. He is also survived by seven siblings. He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert Valdez and Guadalupe Hernandez Valdez, and three siblings.

A celebration of life will be held on March 21, 2026 from 10:00 am – Noon (drop-in) at Woodward Park - Redwood Glen. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Al’s memory are encouraged to make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association or the National CMV Foundation, in honor of his great-granddaughter, Amari, born with congenital CMV. Al will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather—a man whose humor, craftsmanship, and presence left a lasting mark on all who knew him.