Refugio R Valdez Sr.

Jose Refugio Romo Valdez, first-born son of Teodora Romo Valdez and Federico Cornejo Valdez, transcended to his heavenly Father’s realm of absolute freedom and peace on Tuesday, June 21, 2022. Refugio, or as he was called lovingly, Cuco, was born in Santa Maria de en Medio, Jalisco, Mexico. He grew up in both Mexico and the United States, with his parents, his two brothers, David and Alfonso, and four sisters, Socorro, Maria de la Luz (deceased), Amparo, and Maria de Jesus (deceased). Refugio loved and cared for his parents, and all of his brothers and sisters, so much so that he began working to help his family from the young age of six.

His family later moved to Gomez Palacio, Durango, where he met Antonia Gonzalez Aguirre, who later became his wife and mother of his children. Antonia was best friends with Cuco’s sisters, and from the tender age of nine, fell in love with Refugio, and swore to become his wife one day. Refugio vowed to wait and come back for her…and he fulfilled that promise ten years later. In 1955, they became husband and wife. They were married in Gomez Palacio, Durango, then moved to San Pedro, California to begin their new life together. From their union, they were blessed with 5 children: Heliodoro, Martha, Refugio Jr., Carlos, and Veronica. Refugio’s three sons were called home to heaven before him, leaving his two daughters and wife to survive him. He is also survived by dozens of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved all of his children and grandchildren, and took great pride in each and every one.

Refugio worked for over 55 years in the Bakery industry, and always provided lovingly for his family. He loved to grow fruit trees and tend to his garden. He took pride in building his homes. He was proud of his Mexican roots and heritage and loved to travel and see his country, together with his wife and children. He lived a good, long and fruitful life of almost 96 years! He was always blessed with good health, great energy, great sense of humor, a passionate spirit, and a zest for life.
Refugio was one-of-a-kind and will forever live in the hearts and minds of those who loved him.