Frank A. Lujan

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 24, 2014, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2508 Appleby Sand Road. Monsignor James Young will be officiating.

Friends and family are invited to visitation from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 23, 2014, at Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors. Rosary will follow visitation at 7:00 p.m.

Inurnment will take place at the Fort Bayard National Cemetery in New Mexico early next spring.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, father Magdelina Lujan and his mother Petra Amparan Lujan; and his loving wife of 66 years, Frances Portillo Lujan.

Frank is survived by his son, William (Bill) F. Lujan and his wife Carolyn A. Lujan; grandchildren, Yvonne Mendoza, Jennifer Duncan, Melissa Walker and husband Zane Walker, Sean Lujan and wife Stacy, Ed Fincher and wife Tammy Fincher, and Michael Fincher and wife Charlotte; 17 great-grandchildren; brother, Cuco Lujan and wife Rachael; and sisters Anita Delacruz and Socorro Rodriquez and husband Robert.

Frank grew up in New Mexico and Arizona. His family members were miners in the copper mines. He met his future wife at age 16.

Frank joined the United States Marine Corp on March 7, 1944, and served his country during World War II where he fought on the Island of Iwo Jima. His ship was tasked with resupplying ammunition to the island and the guys who raised the famous flag who were his friends. After the war was finished he was stationed in Japan during its occupation.

When Frank returned home he married his wife in 1947. He retired after working for the Veterans hospital as a nursing assistant and warehouseman. His retirement brought him to Nacogdoches to be with his family.

He enjoyed camping, fishing, and building things. In his spare time he taught himself to play a guitar and harmonica which was enjoyed by his family during their gatherings. His Mexican culture was entwined with his children and their favorite food were tamales which they made during Christmas time.

Frank was a quiet man, honorable, kind hearted and true to his word. Although he will be dearly missed his legacy will live on in his family.

Memorial Donations may be offered to the Sacred Heart Food Bank, 2508 Appleby Sand Road, Nacogdoches, TX 75965.

Online condolences may be offered at www.casonmonk-metcalf.com. Funeral arrangements are under the direction and care of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors.