Luciano Martin Franco Junior left this world to meet Jesus on June 28, 2025 at the age of 81. He was so many things to so many people. He was a loving son, a baby brother, a husband of 18 years, a lenient father, a thoughtful Uncle, a caring father-in-law, a giving grandfather, and an attentive friend to many.

Born on August 3, 1943 Luciano, Junior to his nine siblings, was the youngest child of Luciano Senior and Frances. Raised in Oxnard California, he attended Catholic school for a few years and graduated from Santa Clara high school in 1961. That is also where he met his wife of 18 years with whom he raised four children.

They settled down in Lompoc, California, where Luciano started his career as a Meat Cutter working for the Meat Cutter's Union. Later, he transferred to Bakersfield California for work and resided in Shafter where he stayed as the family staple for 45 years.

He had a passion for cars, specifically 67 Chevy's. He loved working on vehicles of his own and also helping out others anytime he could. He became great friends with several mechanics in Shafter through the years. They were all very helpful and patient with the many questions he had and the love he had for learning about cars. Eventually, he made the three car garage he always spoke of.

He also had an affinity for travel, maps, globes and history. He finally got to take a trip to Italy, fulfilling another lifelong desire.  He had a beautiful time and was shocked at just how many miles he walked.

He managed to stay very active by maintaining his relationships with his 15 grandchildren and five great grandchildren. This he held in very high regard. Also, going to the Franco's annual Thanksgiving festivities. He loved his family, he loved socializing, and he loved being surrounded by people.

What he loved and respected most of all was his Church. He had a growing relationship with our Heavenly Father . He read his Bible and prayed daily and attended Church on a regular basis. He believed that Jesus Christ died for our sins. Every believer knows that makes this transition a temporary goodbye. We will be reunited again.

He loved and appreciated everyone he encountered, and those who got the chance to know him are truly blessed.

Psalms 126:5

Those who sow in tears will reap with joyful shouting

Psalms 3:5

…weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning.