Felipe M. Verduzco

Felipe Medrano Verduzco was born Jan 20th 1934 to Sylvestre Verduzco and Eulalia Medrano in a rural ranch known as Palmillas, Colima. He came from humble beginnings, and did not receive any formal education but he learned to read on his own and became savvy in money matters. He was raised in poverty by his mother. He was the oldest of 7 siblings and is survived by 3 sisters (Jovita, Lola, and Lina) and 1 brother (Gustavo). He had a rough up bringing as a child and had to quickly grow up to carry on the traditions of generations past such as Machismo and raising children under the rule of Tough Love. Felipe had two marriages in his life time and he had one son with his first wife. He is survived by Carmen, a noble and enduring wife and they shared 45 years together. He is also survived by 4 sons and 3 daughters; Felipe, Jorge, Norma, Imelda, Hugo, Elizabeth and Eddie. Each one has cherished memories of Felipe as a loving and strict Father; He engraved in their hearts the value for Family, Work and to be a Provider. He had a great sense of humor and he was especially good at giving nicknames to all his kids and friends. For example; Chile Verde, Chilares, Campeon, Gordita, Chivo, Prieta, La Chirrionera, Pelo Fino and La Mina. He also was a Helper to those in need and he helped out his friends. He even provided housing in the converted garage for many who emigrated from Mexico.Felipe is also survived by 7 grandchildren; Christopher and Ignacio both age 10, Adrian and Jacob both age 4, Camelia age 21, Andrew age 19 and Virginia age 14. He looked forward to family visits especially watching his grandkids play which would trigger their Grandpa’s boisterous laugh.Felipe was a Gardener and was proud to be his own boss and he thrived on doing a quality job always. He expanded his business and saved money until he purchased the family home in Pacoima, where he achieved to provide for his wife and kids that which he missed having in his childhood. Maybe this is why he also picked up lots of stray dogs and put them in the big backyard along with doves, rabbits, and chickens. He spent his later years doing a daily ritual where he enjoyed walking to the nearby Pacoima Senior Center where he played poker and then to the coffee shop where he sat for hours in the company of his friends before embarking on the trail home. He was welcomed home each day by Jacob his grandson who reached into his Grandpa’s shirt pocket to find a lollipop. Perhaps Felipe’s only regret was that he did not bond well with his brothers and sisters, because in his last days, he requested from his kids that they all get along and be there for each other. On Sunday May 17th 2015, Felipe gave his last breath. He lived 81 good years comprised of many ups and downs, but through them all Felipe softened his heart, became a better man and feared God in his own way. May his soul rest in peace.