Francisco Valenzuela

He was the son of Anacleto Valenzuela and Benita Quintero-Valenzuela. He was born January 29, 1929 in El Paso, Texas and grew up with 17 plus siblings. They were all raised to look out for one another and all though they grew up and moved miles apart, the bond of caring for each other will never be broken.

On January 28, 1951 Francisco married his better half Edna Marie Carillo at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in El Paso, Texas. They later moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. Edna's calm spirit was the perfect balance to Francisco's feistyness. During their 44 years of marriage, they made their little family. One son, Frank Jr. and one daughter Patricia. They had eight grandchildren, Daniel, Yadhira, Frankie III, Lillian, Jacqueline, Aaron, Andrea, and Chassity. Though Francisco was a man of few words, they were all aware of how much he loved and cared for them. He set an example for all of them on strong work ethics and being grateful for the simple things in life.

Francisco worked as a bellman for over 40 years. He demonstrated the prime example on how to be an exemplary employee. He was loyal, never late, always took pride in his work, never called off, and always did his best.

Francisco always liked to keep himself occupied and always looking sharp. Anyone who knew Francisco knew how much he took pride in his appearance. He loved working on cars, fixing vacuums, watching movies, eating out, going to church, and sitting in his recliner.

He was true to his faith and one of his favorite phrases was "God almighty" and "thank God for that!" Francisco was a member of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church for 20 years, Iglesia de Dios North Las Vegas for 30 years, and Canyon Ridge Christian Church for 4 years. His love for serving in the church started young by playing baby Jesus in the Christmas plays. As an adult, he took pride in serving as an usher.

Francisco retired in 1995 and took this time to spend it with all of his loved ones. He moved back to El Paso, Texas and kept active by visiting his brothers and sisters around Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. He lived out his final years in Las Vegas where he could be close to his children and grandchildren.

Francisco is survived by his children, grandchildren, brothers, and sisters. Services will be held at Canyon Ridge Christian Church. He will be laid to rest at Palm Northwest Cemetery in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Francisco "Panchito" Valenzuela was a headstrong, fearless man. He was a fighter and showed strength until his very last breath. His smile and humor will forever be remembered. He was truly a one of a kind man and will be deeply missed. He leaves with all those who knew him a lifetime of wonderful memories. "Thank God for that!"